Ethical Dilemmas
in AI
Navigating Implementation in our Schools
July 22, 2025
bit.ly/aiDilemma2025
Welcome
Marissa McNamara
Educational Technology Specialist
mmcnamar@btboces.org
What brought you to this session?
Define algorithmic bias and its implications
Explore and apply a critical lens to ethically complex scenarios
Identify applications and next steps for decision-making shifts
Outcomes
bit.ly/aiDilemma2025
What is bias?
In thinking about the human brain, bias is an “adaptive process that allows us to use prior knowledge and experiences to inform our decisions and actions in the present.”
Bias in AI
Programmer Bias
Training Data Bias
Bias in AI
Programmer Bias
Programmers fall within the dominant culture.
Bias in AI
Training Data Bias
“A set of labeled examples used to teach AI systems and machine learning models to recognize patterns, make decisions, and improve over time.”
Example: Using Google Image Search type in "professional hairstyles" then search for "unprofessional hairstyles."
Bias in AI
Algorithmic Bias
Programmer Bias
Training Data Bias
Algorithmic Bias-
a Definition
The systemic and unfair discrimination in AI algorithms due to biases in the training data or the design of the algorithms themselves, leading to unequal treatment of different groups based on characteristics like race, gender, or
socioeconomic status.
Who is the most impacted by algorithmic bias?
Everyone is impacted, but we especially need to consider folks who are outside the dominant culture in the United States and around the World:
*This list is not exhaustive
Keeping Humans
in the Loop
This graphic was created with Napkin.ai
How might algorithmic bias uphold existing systems of inequity and bias in our society, especially in schools?
Turn and Talk
We are at a turning point
Ethical Dilemmas
How can we optimize AI's beneficial impact while reducing risks and adverse outcomes?
Tug of War
Two or more conflicting options- You can't choose both (or all).
Significant consequences- The outcome matters.
No clear "right" answer- Every option has downsides.
Moral or practical tension- Challenges to your values, priorities, or goals.
Ethical Dilemmas
In small groups:
bit.ly/aiDilemma2025
#10
Ethical Decision Making
Frameworks & Resources
"Am I erecting or dismantling barriers?"
What is one idea that you want to hold on to as we begin a new school year?
In closing…