Benjamin Svendsen (24) has completed a bachelor's degree in Applied Data Science and had his bachelor's thesis published in a prestigious journal.
Oppgaven Benjamin's task is a comparative analysis of image classification models designed to recognize Norwegian sign language. He expresses the incredible satisfaction of having his task published in the MDPI-Technologies Q1 journal.
– It feels incredibly good to receive recognition for something I have worked so hard on. Here, I must also thank my supervisor and Professor Seifedine, who made this possible, he says.
Interest in Machine Learning
Communication is an integral part of everyone's life, providing individuals with the ability to express themselves and understand each other. According to the World Health Organization, 5% of the world's population experiences hearing loss, and 70 million are completely deaf. For those who use sign language to communicate, it can be challenging because there are few who understand sign language. Image classification models can contribute to creating systems that assist with this challenge.
Benjamin's interest in machine learning led him to write a thesis on the topic. He developed a liking for image recognition using machine learning.
– I knew that this type of technology could be used for sign language recognition and began reading through the literature to see if it could be a potential bachelor's thesis. I found a lot of research but none specifically focused on translating Norwegian sign language. I saw this as a golden opportunity to fill this gap by researching it myself, says Benjamin.
I knew that this type of technology could be used for sign language recognition.Benjamin Svendsen
📷: Illustrasjon som viser prosessen i Benjamins metode.
Wants to Further Develop the Thesis
The 24-year-old hopes that his thesis can stimulate interest and research in sign language interpretation using machine learning in Norway. He believes it has enormous potential to help the hearing impaired. The thesis required a significant amount of hard work.
– Reading through dense literature while trying to articulate ideas required time and patience. But once I got into the practical part, I really felt that I was on the right track. I was also very determined to write steadily to avoid the common trap many students fall into by postponing everything to the last minute, he says.
He shares that studying Applied Data Science has been a challenging but incredibly educational experience.
– I have gained broad expertise in data, programming, and machine learning, and with this competence, I had the opportunity to research something I am truly passionate about through my bachelor's thesis, he says.
Benjamin secured a job already in his second year of study. His plan going forward is to continue working hard in his job, but he is also exploring opportunities to further develop his bachelor's thesis so that it can be directly beneficial to the hearing impaired in Norway.
The Bachelor's Degree in Applied Data Science has its next intake in August 2024. You can secure your spot for next year's intake now.
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