Creative Games Help Solve Complex Quantum Problems

In this project, Van Nieuwenburg and Julia Cramer are bringing together three groups: experts, members of the public and AI. Together with these groups, they are examining current quantum challenges and how these relate directly to society.

Working together on quantum technology

Van Nieuwenburg is convinced: 'Even people with no knowledge of quantum physics can contribute ideas for solutions. Their strategies provide researchers with new insights and data that can be used to improve AI systems.' Cramer: 'In addition, we involve members of the public in the development process on a more equal footing, which can foster a strong sense of connection.'

Games as common language

Gamification acts as the connecting link between the three very different parties on the online HAIQ platform; it is their common language. 'People are good at recognising patterns and coming up with creative solutions,' explains Van Nieuwenburg. AI can then use those insights to process large amounts of data.

From play to scientific breakthroughs

'I would like to challenge all researchers to gamify their research,' says Van Nieuwenburg. 'This forces you to clearly formulate the key principles of your research question. Simply devising the rules of the game forces you to organise your own thoughts. And the data gathered from playing the game can then provide you with new insights.'

Understanding quantum mechanics through play

The games aren't just valuable to researchers. By working together on the game (not just playing it!), you quickly find a common language that both sides can understand. The games therefore also help developers and players to understand the unique rules of the quantum world - without having to attend lectures or study complex theory.

An example of this approach is ERRATIQ, a quantum game that Van Nieuwenburg previously developed together with postdoc Jan Krzywda and Waag Futurelab, in collaboration with members of the public. In this game, participants attempt to correct errors in a quantum computer. Quantum computers are highly sensitive to disturbances. To perform reliable calculations, computers must recognise and correct such errors.

In ERRATIQ, players try to achieve the highest possible score in as few steps as possible. They do not need to know exactly how a quantum computer works to do so. The game collects their strategies and uses this information to train AI models capable of recognising and correcting quantum errors. Van Nieuwenburg says: 'The AI models trained in this way are already outperforming existing ones. In this way, players are making a direct contribution to scientific research'.

A broad partnership

Julia Cramer, who conducts research into the interaction between quantum technology and society, sees this project as a significant opportunity. 'This project deliberately brings together a wide range of disciplines and organisations: alongside physicists and AI specialists, participants include linguists, philosophers, industrial designers and game designers. Representatives from vocational colleges, universities of applied sciences and universities are also involved.'

'We will be carrying out impact assessments so that we can make immediate adjustments. Our challenge is to create a genuine two-way dialogue between all these experts and non-experts. This will benefit the integration of quantum technology.'