Methodology for Evaluating Statistical Equivalence in Face Recognition Using Live Subjects with Dissimilar Skin Tones

Abstract

The question sought in this study is whether there is a significant statistical
difference between a facial recognition system's ability to recognize dark or light skin
tone subjects. In addition to the direct comparison of results from two different
populations, this study also examines four factors commonly effecting facial recognition
systems. The four factors tested were angle of the camera viewing the subject; both
horizontally to the left and right, as well as vertically, both above and below the subject's
line of sight.
Additionally, the distance the subjects are from the camera, and then intensity of
the illumination on the subject. The experimentation was approached from the
assumption that subjects are cooperative, following guidelines for proper enrollment and
submission for matching.
The experimentation of the four factors was conducted using two sets of three
subjects. One set was dark skin tone males, and the second set was light skin tone males.
The results of the study showed a significance statistical difference between the two skin
tones, with greater difficulty identifying the light skin tone test subjects than those with
dark skin tone.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Rigoberto Chinchilla (Supervisor)