Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a prominent topic of discussion among digital inclusion advocates, who recognize its potential to both bridge and exacerbate existing disparities. Angela Siefer, the executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), believes that AI is poised to create the next digital divide. It was during the recent Net Inclusion 2024 event in Philadelphia that Siefer shared her concerns, emphasizing the need for the digital equity community to proactively address this challenge.
While acknowledging potential inequities arising from AI, such as the need for training and the presence of human biases in technology, Siefer also sees an opportunity for digital inclusion practitioners to stay one step ahead. Unlike in the past, they can now anticipate new technologies and navigate them with the support of a robust digital inclusion ecosystem.
Importantly, this proactive stance allows digital inclusion organizations to prepare themselves for training individuals on AI applications, whether it be in community centers or public libraries. Additionally, it equips them to engage with policymakers during the formulation of regulations surrounding AI, ensuring that the needs and concerns of marginalized communities are considered.
During the panel discussion at Net Inclusion, other experts echoed Siefer’s sentiments. Amina Fazlullah from Common Sense Media emphasized that while AI may not be new, the emergence of generative AI has fueled a renewed interest in its implications. Common Sense Media, for example, is providing free resources to help individuals understand generative AI and aiming to bridge the gap in product reviews.
Luke Swarthout from InnovateEDU highlighted the inherent inequalities embedded in AI systems, which are often built upon pre-existing disparities within society. He emphasized that digital inclusion practitioners must embrace AI rather than opting out, as it has become an omnipresent force that cannot be ignored. Swarthout also likened AI to a fire, capable of providing warmth but also possessing the potential to cause harm.
In conclusion, the advent of AI presents both challenges and opportunities for digital inclusion. By taking a proactive and inclusive approach, the digital equity community can navigate the AI landscape, ensuring that marginalized populations are not left further behind. With careful consideration and collective effort, AI can become a powerful tool in fostering digital equity for all.
FAQ:
1. What is the concern raised by Angela Siefer at the Net Inclusion 2024 event?
– Angela Siefer raised concerns about how artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to create the next digital divide.
2. How can digital inclusion organizations prepare for the challenges of AI?
– Digital inclusion organizations can prepare themselves by training individuals on AI applications and actively engaging with policymakers to ensure the needs and concerns of marginalized communities are considered.
3. What is generative AI and why is it important?
– Generative AI is a type of AI that can create new content, such as images or text. Its emergence has increased interest in the implications of AI and the need for understanding and regulation.
4. What is Common Sense Media doing to address the implications of generative AI?
– Common Sense Media is providing free resources to help individuals understand generative AI and is working to bridge the gap in product reviews related to AI.
5. How does Luke Swarthout view AI and its relationship with digital inclusion?
– Luke Swarthout emphasizes that digital inclusion practitioners should embrace AI as it is an omnipresent force that cannot be ignored. He compares AI to a fire, capable of both providing warmth and causing harm.
Definitions:
– Artificial intelligence (AI): Technology that allows machines to imitate human intelligence and perform tasks like learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
– Digital inclusion: Ensuring everyone has access to and the ability to use digital technologies, such as the internet, to participate fully in society and the economy.
– Digital equity: Equal access and opportunities to use digital technologies, regardless of socioeconomic or demographic factors.
– Digital inclusion practitioner: Individuals or organizations that work to bridge the digital divide and promote digital equity.
– Generative AI: A type of AI that can create original content, such as images, music, or text.
Suggested Related Links:
– National Digital Inclusion Alliance: The official website of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), an organization focused on promoting digital equity.
– Common Sense Media: An organization providing unbiased resources and reviews to help individuals make informed decisions about media and technology.
– InnovateEDU: The official website of InnovateEDU, an organization working to bridge the education and opportunity gaps in underserved communities.
The source of the article is from the blog tvbzorg.com