AI as lifter and equalizer
"Usher in an era where the adoption of AI acts as a lifting and equalizing force". This inspirational goal was shared in a recent Harvard Business Review article on eliminating algorithmic bias and equitable AI (Simon Friis and James Riley, HBR, September 29, 2023)
While enjoying all the great publications, blogs and posts on how AI can contribute and lift L&D, I am missing a similar discussion and sharing of best practice on how the use of AI in L&D can also be an equalizing force.
And I am afraid that this may mean that we miss an important opportunity to be a force for good as L&D/ HRD.
Questions we can ask ourselves
Questions that come to mind, inspired by Professor Patrizia Zanoni and the invite for the International Workshop "Unpacking how new technologies are reshaping diversity and (in)equality at work" in May 2023 are for example:
- How does the use of AI affect how L&D is being reorganised and how does this reorganisation relate to processes of inclusion/exclusion and (in)equality?
- How does the use of AI in L&D redefine diverse workers’ learning opportunities? To which extent does the use of AI in L&D entrench past inequalities (think f.e. the gender digital divide)?
- Which role does AI in L&D play in the production of prescriptions of ideal employees and ideal performance? With which effects on historically subordinated groups of workers?
- Under which conditions can the use of AI in L&D reduce discrimination and biases?
- How can AI support L&D teams in understanding and engaging with diversity, equality and inclusion in their work?
Love to hear your thoughts and any literature/ posts that you can recommend!
Warm regards,
Ingeborg