Tools & Platforms
AI Could Learn Pattern Recognition From Bees
By building a computational model – or a digital version of a bee’s brain – researchers have discovered how the way bees move their bodies during flight helps shape visual input and generates unique electrical messages in their brains.
These movements generate neural signals that allow bees to easily and efficiently identify predictable features of the world around them. This ability means bees demonstrate remarkable accuracy in learning and recognizing complex visual patterns during flight, such as those found in a flower.
The model not only deepens our understanding of how bees learn and recognize complex patterns through their movements, but also paves the way for next-generation AI. It demonstrates that future robots can be smarter and more efficient by using movement to gather information, rather than relying on massive computing power.
Professor James Marshall, Director of the Centre of Machine Intelligence at the University of Sheffield and senior author on the study, said: “In this study we’ve successfully demonstrated that even the tiniest of brains can leverage movement to perceive and understand the world around them. This shows us that a small, efficient system – albeit the result of millions of years of evolution – can perform computations vastly more complex than we previously thought possible.
“Harnessing nature’s best designs for intelligence opens the door for the next generation of AI, driving advancements in robotics, self-driving vehicles and real-world learning.”
The study, a collaboration with Queen Mary University of London, is published today in the journal eLife. It builds on the team’s previous research into how bees use active vision – the process where their movements help them collect and process visual information. While their earlier work observed how bees fly around and inspect specific patterns, this new study provides a deeper understanding of the underlying brain mechanisms driving that behavior.
The sophisticated visual pattern learning abilities of bees, such as differentiating between human faces, have long been understood; however the study’s findings shed new light on how pollinators navigate the world with such seemingly simple efficiency.
Dr. HaDi MaBouDi, lead author and researcher at the University of Sheffield, said: “In our previous work, we were fascinated to discover that bees employ a clever scanning shortcut to solve visual puzzles. But that just told us what they do; for this study, we wanted to understand how.
“Our model of a bee’s brain demonstrates that its neural circuits are optimized to process visual information not in isolation, but through active interaction with its flight movements in the natural environment, supporting the theory that intelligence comes from how the brain, bodies and the environment work together.
“We’ve learnt that bees, despite having brains no larger than a sesame seed, don’t just see the world – they actively shape what they see through their movements. It’s a beautiful example of how action and perception are deeply intertwined to solve complex problems with minimal resources. This is something that has major implications for both biology and AI.”
The model shows that bee neurons become finely tuned to specific directions and movements as their brain networks gradually adapt through repeated exposure to various stimuli, refining their responses without relying on associations or reinforcement. This lets the bee’s brain adapt to its environment simply by observing while flying, without requiring instant rewards. This means the brain is incredibly efficient, using only a few active neurons to recognize things, conserving both energy and processing power.
To validate their computational model, the researchers subjected it to the same visual challenges encountered by real bees. In a pivotal experiment, the model was tasked with differentiating between a ‘plus’ sign and a ‘multiplication’ sign. The model exhibited significantly improved performance when it mimicked the real bees’ strategy of scanning only the lower half of the patterns, a behavior observed by the research team in a previous study.
Even with just a small network of artificial neurons, the model successfully showed how bees can recognise human faces, underscoring the strength and flexibility of their visual processing.
Professor Lars Chittka, Professor of Sensory and Behavioural Ecology at Queen Mary University of London, added: ‘Scientists have been fascinated by the question of whether brain size predicts intelligence in animals. But such speculations make no sense unless one knows the neural computations that underpin a given task.
“Here we determine the minimum number of neurons required for difficult visual discrimination tasks and find that the numbers are staggeringly small, even for complex tasks such as human face recognition. Thus insect microbrains are capable of advanced computations.”
Professor Mikko Juusola, Professor in System Neuroscience from the University of Sheffield’s School of Biosciences and Neuroscience Institute said: “This work strengthens a growing body of evidence that animals don’t passively receive information – they actively shape it.
“Our new model extends this principle to higher-order visual processing in bees, revealing how behaviorally driven scanning creates compressed, learnable neural codes. Together, these findings support a unified framework where perception, action and brain dynamics co-evolve to solve complex visual tasks with minimal resources – offering powerful insights for both biology and AI.”
By bringing together findings from how insects behave, how their brains work, and what the computational models show, the study shows how studying small insect brains can uncover basic rules of intelligence. These findings not only deepen our understanding of cognition but also have significant implications for developing new technologies.
Reference: MaBouDi H, Roper M, Guiraud MG, et al. A neuromorphic model of active vision shows how spatiotemporal encoding in lobula neurons can aid pattern recognition in bees. eLife. 2025. doi:10.7554/eLife.89929
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AI Bridges the Knowledge Gap in Remote Villages
Last updated:
Edited By
Mackenzie Ferguson
AI Tools Researcher & Implementation Consultant
In a groundbreaking development, students in a remote village in Telangana are tapping into AI tools to widen their knowledge horizons. This innovative approach is not only breaking educational barriers but also setting a precedent for other rural areas to adopt similar methodologies. As AI continues to penetrate into various sectors, education in underserved areas gets a major boost!
Background Info
In today’s rapidly advancing digital age, students in remote locations are tapping into the potential of technology to broaden their knowledge horizons. A striking example of this can be seen in a village in Telangana, where students have embraced AI tools to enhance their learning experience. By leveraging artificial intelligence, these students can access a wealth of resources that were previously beyond their reach. This initiative not only contributes to improved educational outcomes but also empowers the youth to become active participants in the digital world. To learn more about this remarkable endeavor, you can visit the detailed article on this subject here.
News URL
The rapid development and integration of technology in education is transforming how knowledge is accessed and acquired, even in the remotest regions. According to a recent report, students in a secluded village in Telangana have embraced artificial intelligence (AI) tools to significantly widen their understanding and enhance their educational experience. This progression is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of technology and its capacity to bridge educational gaps across geographical boundaries. For more detailed insights into this development, refer to the full article on New Indian Express.
The initiative in Telangana exemplifies a broader trend of integrating AI-driven solutions in education to overcome traditional learning barriers. With AI tools at their disposal, students are now able to explore a vast array of subjects beyond their standard curriculum, enhancing both their academic and personal growth. This local revolution is part of a larger narrative where technology is democratizing education, making it more inclusive and accessible. Such initiatives, as highlighted in the New Indian Express, underscore the importance of tech literacy in shaping the future of education.
The embrace of AI by students in Telangana is not only expanding their learning horizons but also preparing them for a future where digital literacy will be paramount. This development aligns with global educational trends that emphasize the importance of incorporating technology in learning environments to foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. More insights into this shift can be found in the original report on this inspirational educational advancement.
Article Summary
In a remarkable development, students from a remote village in Telangana, India, are leveraging artificial intelligence tools to enhance their educational journey. By tapping into AI technology, these students have significantly broadened their knowledge base, demonstrating that geographic limitations need not impede their learning potential. This initiative, highlighted in a report by The New Indian Express, underscores the transformative power of technology in education.
The innovative use of AI tools by students in Telangana has garnered widespread attention, marking a pivotal moment in the integration of digital resources in education. This effort is seen as a beacon for other remote areas, showcasing how technology can be harnessed to overcome educational barriers and foster knowledge acquisition. The exemplary work of these students could potentially inspire similar initiatives globally, aligning with broader educational goals and digital inclusion strategies.
Expert opinions are lauding this move as a significant step towards narrowing the digital divide and empowering rural education systems. The strategic application of AI in learning processes is not only improving the academic experiences of the students but also preparing them for a future where digital literacy will be paramount. These efforts reflect a proactive approach in adapting to modern educational methodologies amidst the ongoing technological revolution.
Public reactions to this development have been overwhelmingly positive, with many applauding the students’ initiative and adaptability. The story has resonated with various stakeholders, illustrating a growing acknowledgment of the potential that AI holds in reshaping the educational landscape, especially in underserved regions. This positive reception may foster further collaborations and support from educational bodies and technology providers eager to replicate this success.
Considering the current trajectory, the implications for the future are profound. The use of AI tools in such settings may pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in education, leading to more personalized and efficient learning experiences. The success of this initiative could serve as a catalyst for widespread adoption of similar technologies across educational sectors worldwide, ultimately contributing to the elevation of global educational standards.
Related Events
The innovative use of AI tools by students in a remote village in Telangana is not an isolated event. Similar initiatives have been observed across various regions where technology is increasingly being leveraged to overcome educational challenges. For instance, in rural areas of India, digital literacy programs have been implemented to ensure students have access to quality resources online. These programs are often supported by local NGOs and government schemes dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for underprivileged communities.
Furthermore, events such as science fairs and hackathons are regularly organized to bring together students from different backgrounds, fostering an environment of collaborative learning and technological innovation. These events not only encourage students to apply their knowledge practically but also expose them to the latest advancements in technology, broadening their horizons further. Such activities have shown promising results in motivating students to pursue careers in science and technology fields.
Additionally, international collaborations have been initiated where students and educators from different countries participate in exchange programs, virtual conferences, and workshops. These events are crucial in promoting cross-cultural understanding and sharing of technological expertise. Students from the Telangana project could benefit from such collaborations, gaining global insights that could enhance their learning experience and application of AI tools.
The integration of AI in rural education, as highlighted in the Telangana initiative, also aligns with global trends where educational technology is becoming an integral part of the curriculum. Events like the annual EdTech conference provide a platform for educators and technologists worldwide to share experiences and innovations in this space, further influencing rural education positively.
Expert Opinions
In recent educational developments, students in a remote Telangana village are utilizing artificial intelligence tools to vastly expand their knowledge and learning experiences. This innovative approach has not only drawn attention from educational circles but also garnered expert opinions demonstrating a significant shift in learning paradigms. According to a report by the New Indian Express, educational technologists and pedagogical experts are hailing this initiative as a transformative step towards democratizing access to education and resources.
Experts argue that the integration of AI tools in rural education settings effectively bridges the gap between resource-rich urban areas and under-resourced villages. These tools provide students access to a wealth of information and learning modules that were previously inaccessible. As highlighted by researchers in the article from New Indian Express, this approach not only supports academic development but also fosters critical thinking and creativity among students.
Furthermore, the use of AI in education is seen by many experts as a way to prepare students for a future dominated by technology. The New Indian Express reports that by embracing AI tools, students in Telangana are being equipped with skills that are crucial for the 21st-century workplace. Industry experts appreciate this forward-thinking approach, suggesting it could serve as a model for other regions seeking to improve educational outcomes through technology.
Public Reactions
In recent times, the initiative by students in a remote Telangana village to leverage artificial intelligence tools for expanding their knowledge has sparked widespread public interest and admiration. The public’s reaction has generally been positive, with many lauding the students’ innovative approach to overcoming educational barriers. This sentiment has been particularly echoed in the digital realm, where social media platforms buzz with discussions and commendations about how technology can democratize learning opportunities even in the most underserved areas. Several individuals have shared their thoughts on how such initiatives could set a precedent for other rural areas in India and beyond, emphasizing the potential of AI in bridging educational gaps.
In online forums and community boards, there is a sense of optimism regarding the students’ achievements, with many community members expressing hope that this project could attract more resources and attention to similar rural educational endeavors. Some have drawn parallels between this project and other successful tech-based educational interventions globally, arguing that these students’ pioneering efforts could inspire governmental and non-governmental organizations to invest more heavily in technology-assisted learning. Enthusiastic comments and shares on platforms like Twitter and Facebook underscore a collective aspiration for education systems worldwide to adopt more inclusive and innovative approaches.
However, amidst the applause, there are also voices of caution. Some members of the public have raised questions regarding the sustainability of such initiatives in remote areas, considering the challenges of infrastructure and consistent access to technology. The concerns revolve around ensuring that these initial gains can be maintained over time and suggesting the need for policy support to reinforce these efforts. Additionally, some experts have highlighted the importance of providing continuous training for educators in these areas to adeptly utilize AI tools, ensuring that the potential of these technologies is fully realized. These discussions, while highlighting potential pitfalls, also serve to enrich the overall dialogue around the future of education in rural regions.
Future Implications
The article titled “Students in Remote Telangana Village Tap AI Tools to Broaden Knowledge” sheds light on an innovative approach adopted by students in a remote village of Telangana. By embracing AI tools, these students have gained unprecedented access to a world of information, which significantly broadens their learning horizons. This development not only highlights the impact of technological advancement in education but also raises questions about the potential long-term implications, particularly in how education systems could evolve in rural settings. In the future, this trend might lead to rural areas experiencing an educational renaissance, fostering a generation of learners who are both informed and technologically savvy. Such a shift could redefine educational priorities and resource allocations across various regions. For further insights, the full article can be accessed here.
As students in remote Telangana villages embrace AI tools, the future implications for education in these areas are profound. The widespread adoption of technology in education, as highlighted in the article from July 2025, could eventually bridge the educational divide between urban and rural populations. This transition also brings forward the possibility of integrating AI-driven personalized learning experiences, which cater to individual student needs, thus enhancing educational outcomes. Moreover, government bodies and educational institutions might be prompted to invest further in digital infrastructure and training programs to support this technological shift. Interested readers can learn more by visiting the original news piece here.
As cybersecurity threats and artificial intelligence continue reshaping the job market, Northeastern State University is stepping up its efforts to prepare students for these in-demand fields.
With programs targeting both K-12 engagement and college-level degrees, NSU is positioning itself as a key player in Oklahoma’s tech talent pipeline.
Cybersecurity: Training the Next Generation
NSU is working to meet the rising need for cybersecurity professionals by launching educational initiatives for students at multiple levels. Dr. Stacey White, the university’s cybersecurity program coordinator, says young people are especially suited for these roles because of their comfort with technology.
That’s why NSU is hosting cybersecurity camps and has built hands-on facilities like a cybersecurity lab to introduce students to real-world applications.
“When I first started in technology and the cyber world, it was usernames and passwords,” Dr. White said. “Today, it’s much more intricate than that.”
The Scope of the Problem
Cybercrime is a growing threat that shows no signs of slowing down. According to Dr. White, everyone should have a basic understanding of cybersecurity, but the greatest need lies in training new professionals who can keep up with evolving threats.
Currently, there are nearly 450,000 open cybersecurity jobs nationwide — including almost 4,200 in Oklahoma alone.
New AI Degree Launching This Fall
This fall, NSU is introducing a new degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics. Dr. Janet Buzzard, dean of the College of Business and Technology, says the program combines technical knowledge with business insight — a skill set that employers across many industries are seeking.
“All of our graduates in our College of Business and Technology need that skill set of artificial intelligence,” Dr. Buzzard said. “Not just the one major and degree that we’re promoting here.”
The new degree is designed to respond to student interest and market demand, offering versatile career paths in fields such as finance, logistics, and technology development.
Encouraging Early Engagement
Dr. Buzzard adds that exposing students to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity early in their academic careers helps them see these paths as viable and exciting career options.
This is one of the reasons NSU Broken Arrow is hosting a cybersecurity camp for middle school-aged students today and June 8. Campers will learn from industry professionals and experienced educators about the importance of cybersecurity, effective communication in a rapidly evolving digital world and foundational concepts in coding and encoding.
NSU’s efforts to modernize its programs come at a crucial time, with both AI and cybersecurity jobs seeing major growth. For students and professionals alike, the university is building opportunities that align with the future of work.
This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Risa Morimoto, a senior lecturer in economics at SOAS University of London, in England. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
Students always cheat.
I’ve been a lecturer for 18 years, and I’ve dealt with cheating throughout that time, but with AI tools becoming widely available in recent years, I’ve experienced a significant change.
There are definitely positive aspects to AI. It’s much easier to get access to information and students can use these tools to improve their writing, spelling, and grammar, so there are fewer badly written essays.
However, I believe some of my students have been using AI to generate essay content that pulls information from the internet, instead of using material from my classes to complete their assignments.
AI is supposed to help us work efficiently, but my workload has skyrocketed because of it. I have to spend lots of time figuring out whether the work students are handing in was really written by them.
I’ve decided to take dramatic action, changing the way I assess students to encourage them to be more creative and rely less on AI. The world is changing, so universities can’t stand still.
Cheating has become harder to detect because of AI
I’ve worked at SOAS University of London since 2012. My teaching focus is ecological economics.
Initially, my teaching style was exam-based, but I found that students were anxious about one-off exams, and their results wouldn’t always correspond to their performance.
I eventually pivoted to a focus on essays. Students chose their topic and consolidated theories into an essay. It worked well — until AI came along.
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Cheating used to be easier to spot. I’d maybe catch one or two students cheating by copying huge chunks of text from internet sources, leading to a plagiarism case. Even two or three years ago, detecting inappropriate AI use was easier due to signs like robotic writing styles.
Now, with more sophisticated AI technologies, it’s harder to detect, and I believe the scale of cheating has increased.
I’ll read 100 essays and some of them will be very similar using identical case examples, that I’ve never taught.
These examples are typically referenced on the internet, which makes me think the students are using an AI tool that is incorporating them. Some of the essays will cite 20 pieces of literature, but not a single one will be something from the reading list I set.
While students can use examples from internet sources in their work, I’m concerned that some students have just used AI to generate the essay content without reading or engaging with the original source.
I started using AI detection tools to assess work, but I’m aware this technology has limitations.
AI tools are easy to access for students who feel pressured by the amount of work they have to do. University fees are increasing, and a lot of students work part-time jobs, so it makes sense to me that they want to use these tools to complete work more quickly.
There’s no obvious way to judge misconduct
During the first lecture of my module, I’ll tell students they can use AI to check grammar or summarize the literature to better understand it, but they can’t use it to generate responses to their assignments.
SOAS has guidance for AI use among students, which sets similar principles about not using AI to generate essays.
Over the past year, I’ve sat on an academic misconduct panel at the university, dealing with students who’ve been flagged for inappropriate AI use across departments.
I’ve seen students refer to these guidelines and say that they only used AI to support their learning and not to write their responses.
It can be hard to make decisions because you can’t be 100% sure from reading the essay whether it’s AI-generated or not. It’s also hard to draw a line between cheating and using AI to support learning.
Next year, I’m going to dramatically change my assignment format
My colleagues and I speak about the negative and positive aspects of AI, and we’re aware that we still have a lot to learn about the technology ourselves.
The university is encouraging lecturers to change their teaching and assessment practices. At the department level, we often discuss how to improve things.
I send my two young children to a school with an alternative, progressive education system, rather than a mainstream British state school. Seeing how my kids are educated has inspired me to try two alternative assessment methods this coming academic year. I had to go through a formal process with the university to get them approved.
I’ll ask my students to choose a topic and produce a summary of what they learned in the class about it. Second, they’ll create a blog, so they can translate what they’ve understood of the highly technical terms into a more communicable format.
My aim is to make sure the assignments are directly tied to what we’ve learned in class and make assessments more personal and creative.
The old assessment model, which involves memorizing facts and regurgitating them in exams, isn’t useful anymore. ChatGPT can easily give you a beautiful summary of information like this. Instead, educators need to help students with soft skills, communication, and out-of-the-box thinking.
In a statement to BI, a SOAS spokesperson said students are guided to use AI in ways that “uphold academic integrity.” They said the university encouraged students to pursue work that is harder for AI to replicate and have “robust mechanisms” in place for investigating AI misuse. “The use of AI is constantly evolving, and we are regularly reviewing and updating our policies to respond to these changes,” the spokesperson added.
Do you have a story to share about AI in education? Contact this reporter at ccheong@businessinsider.com.
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