Bias in Technology

We use technology – the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of human life or, as it is sometimes phrased, to change and manipulate the human environment (OED) – to automate our work. Machines and software aid us in making decisions or even make decisions for us. To help us see things and do things that we ourselves cannot do because of lack of time, lack of knowledge, or lack of ability.

But technology is biased. The World Economic Forum article “Research shows AI is often biased. Here’s how to make algorithms work for all of us” states,  “Bias represents injustice against a person or a group. A lot of existing human bias can be transferred to machines because technologies are not neutral; they are only as good, or bad, as the people who develop them.” Even worse, bias infects our decisions on what technology to use and how we use technology.

Why? Because all humans are all biased. And who creates and uses technology? Humans. Consciously or subconsciously, our biases lead to discrimination. Discrimination either in the development or use of technology.  So, how can we determine how bias is impacting our use or development of technology?
After this workshop you will be able to:

• Describe how bias impacts the development of technology
• Describe how bias impacts the use of technology
• Describe how to select technology that minimizes bias

Admission is $35 per person. The event is Virtual