Exploring the human bias behind AI algorithms

In this latest Research Tuesdays event, AI’s hidden impacts, a University of Adelaide researcher will explore the serious consequences of relying solely on AI algorithms that perpetuate existing human prejudice and how researchers are solving these challenges.

Associate Professor Carolyn Semmler is from the University of Adelaide’s School of Psychology and leads the Applied Cognition and Experimental Psychology (ACEP) research group. Her research examines human interaction with intelligent agents and the development of human-machine interfaces for defence and national security.

“Imagine searching for a job online, only to learn that the opportunities presented to you are determined by your gender,” she said.

“A recent study revealed that Google's algorithms showed ads for high-paying executive jobs to male users nearly six times more often than to females.”

This story is all too common, highlighting a crucial issue.

“As powerful as AI algorithms can be, relying on them to replace human decision-making can lead to unintended consequences, such as reinforcing prejudices and social inequalities,” said Associate Professor Semmler.

“The ‘right’ decision on paper isn't always the best one, especially when it comes to complex human matters like morality.”

"As powerful as AI algorithms can be, relying on them to replace human decision-making can lead to unintended consequences."Associate Professor Carolyn Semmler, School of Psychology, the University of Adelaide

Technology has vastly changed the human experience, and there are many complexities to using AI responsibly.

Join Associate Professor Semmler to learn about how researchers from the University of Adelaide have been probing these intricacies behind AI, uncovering both the promises and pitfalls of using algorithms in areas like medicine and law.

Their work illuminates the challenges and complexities of responsibly integrating AI into daily life.

Speaker

Associate Professor Carolyn Semmler leads the Applied Cognition and Experimental Psychology (ACEP) research group at the University of Adelaide. She's authored over 35 works applying cognitive science to real-world problems. Her research is backed by the Australian Research Council and the U.S. National Science Foundation and has been featured on the BBC, ABC, and Ockham’s Razor podcast.

The Research Tuesdays lecture series is very popular so early registration to attend the in-person event is advised.
The talk will also be available to watch streamed online.

When

Tuesday, 10 October 2023. 5:30-6:30pm.

Where

The Braggs Building, North Terrace campus, The University of Adelaide

Tickets

Click here to reserve an in-person ticket.

Click here to register for the online webinar.