my team was thrilled this morning to learn that a citizen science project conceptualised, designed, and enacted by a pair of our students on using deep learning in the identification of ornithological species has been featured in the 15th May 2023 issue of the schools-focussed newspaper IN. IN is a publication of the Singapore Press Holdings (SPH).
Singapore is an important stopover for migratory bird species between the northern and southern hemispheres each year. This is particularly significant given the highly urbanized nature of the landscape in the island-state. Species biodiversity can therefore be high, with seasonal fluctuations. Keeping accurate records of biodiversity is important is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Birdwatching has always been a globally-enjoyed pastime, and recently, it has been rising in popularity, particularly among the young. Birdwatching promotes exercise, generates high-quality research-grade data of paramount importance to conservation efforts, and enables people to connect to wildlife. However, accurately identifying a particular species of a bird out of the thousands in one’s local area can prove to be quite challenging, and a book identification book or application is deemed essential for any novice birdwatcher.
the Straits Times schools department launched in 2005 with a mission to engage young readers with stories about them. IN accompanies the Straits Times (which is Singapore's main English broadsheet) to secondary schools each week. IN is designed:
- to be in tune with young Singaporeans;
- to bridge current affairs with young people's understandings of the issues of the day; and
- to inspire original content based on giving young people a voice.
we are really very grateful to the editorial and writing team at the SPH.
to God be the Glory.
:-)
