CS 332

Assignment 5

Due: Thursday, October 8

In the first problem on this assignment, you'll learn about the process of analyzing fMRI data to identify language areas of the brain. While not related specifically to vision, the same process is used to identify areas of the brain that are engaged in tasks such as recognizing faces. You'll work with a MATLAB Live Script that walks you through the analysis of fMRI data obtained from the laboratory of Nancy Kanwisher at MIT. The code files for the first problem are stored in a folder named fMRI_analysis_GLM that can be downloaded through this fMRI zip link. (This link is also posted on the course schedule page, and the fMRI_analysis_GLM folder is also stored in the /home/cs332/download directory on the CS file server.)

For the second problem, you will read some short online articles related to broad societal issues for the deployment of face recognition technology, such as legal, security, and privacy issues, and write an individual summary of the key issues in preparation for a class discussion on Thursday, October 8.

Submission details: For Problem 1, you will make your code modifications and write your answers to questions directly in the Live Script. You can then submit this work by dragging your fMRI_analysis_GLM folder into the cs332/drop folder in your individual account on the CS file server (each partner should submit this folder to their own account). For Problem 2, you should each create a Google doc with your summary of key issues related to the deployment of face recognition technologies. To submit your summary, share the Google doc with me — please give me Edit privileges so that I can provide feedback directly in the Google doc.

Your summary for Problem 2 is due before class on Thursday, October 8 — this is a strict deadline, to help you prepare to participate in the class discussion.

Problem 1: Analyzing fMRI Data

The fMRI_analysis_GLM folder contains a MATLAB Live Script named fMRI_GLM.mlx that contains text, images, and code segments that walk you through the analysis of fMRI data from an experiment to identify language areas of the brain. As noted above, the same analysis steps are used to analyze fMRI data to identify areas of the brain related to visual recognition, such as those involved in the recognition of faces, objects, body parts, and actions. There are brief instructions near the top of the Live Script, and the instructions above provide submission details. You will work on this problem with partners, and should be able to complete the tasks during class.

Problem 2: Issues for Society in the Deployment of Face Recognition Technologies

Below are links to some recent online articles addressing some of the controversial aspects of the use of face recognition technology, including legal issues as well as the security and privacy aspects of these technologies. Face recognition systems are beneficial to society, but researchers, technologists, policy makers, and others, need to help ensure that this technology will be used in a way that addresses legal, security, and privacy concerns. In preparation for a class discussion on Thursday, October 8, write a summary of what you view are the key benefits and drawbacks of face recognition technology, and the key issues for society that must be considered. The summary should be about 500 words long, concisely written. You are welcome to explore additional articles beyond what is provided below — these are just a few examples.