Overview
**This course is now open for registration.
Technology is not neutral. There are many human choices that go into the design of any technology, including machine learning models. Choices are made about the type of model to use, which features should be included or excluded and what things should be "optimized" for in the model. Ultimately, AI is constructed by people. The fact that some AI systems are unexplainable "black boxes" is a design choice.
Today’s AI systems exemplify narrow AI. They do not have intrinsic motivations of their own. Nor are they able to solve every problem that a human can. Rather, they are designed to tackle narrowly defined tasks—to make predictions, recommendations, or decisions in specific domains for specific purposes.
This course provides context for how machine learning models actually work and tackles the question of how these models can be designed in ways that better align with core ethical principles.
AI Ethics: Machine Learning Models: is the third course in a series of four that explore the ethical issues posed by advancement of AI. In this course, learners will:
- Learn about the applications and limits of machine learning, a prominent approach to AI
- Explore ethical issues associated with the development and use of machine learning models
- Examine the implications of opaque models for accountability and autonomy
- Consider how design choices influence user behaviour
- Assess the role of data bias in producing unjust outcomes in AI systems
- Find strategies for improving transparency and accountability, promoting autonomy, and mitigating bias in machine learning projects and applications
How It Works
Course Access
90 days
Effort
16-20 hours total
Delivery
Online, On-Demand
Instruction
Self-paced
Cost
$600
Bundle this course to earn a certificate in AI Ethics maximize your learning and save on cost!
Katrina Ingram
A seasoned executive, Katrina has over two decades of experience running both not for profit and corporate organizations. She served as the Global OEM Marketing Manager for Crystal Decisions (now part of SAP), where she managed partner relationships with software vendors ranging from small VARs to Fortune 100 companies. Katrina left the technology sector for the media industry, first joining the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and then CKUA Radio Network, where she served as the Chief Operating Officer. Since leaving CKUA Radio in 2017, Katrina has helped launch the Alberta Podcast Network, consulted with TEC Edmonton’s health accelerator, led a cannabis start-up in the HR recruitment space, launched an audio content production company and completed her master’s degree. She is also an adjunct faculty member at MacEwan University.
Katrina is a member of IEEE, and volunteers with several AI ethics organizations including Women in AI and Ethics (WAIE), For Humanity and All Tech is Human. She is host of several podcasts including AI4Society Dialogues>a. Katrina holds an undergrad in business administration from Simon Fraser University and a master of arts in communications and technology from the University of Alberta. Despite her professional accomplishments, she still burns toast on a regular basis!
Trystan Goetze
Trystan S. Goetze, Ph.D. (he/they/she), is a Canadian philosopher, ethicist, and writer. His research is about moral responsibility and epistemic injustice, as well as topics in AI ethics and computer ethics generally. They are currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Embedded EthiCS programme at Harvard University. The programme works with philosophers and computer scientists to integrate ethics lessons into the computer science curriculum. In his spare time, Trystan designs and plays tabletop roleplaying games. Learn more about Trystan’s work at https://www.trystangoetze.ca/ or on Twitter @ErrantCanadian.
Course FAQs
Is this an instructor-led course?
This course is designed to be self-paced with all materials you need for successful completion contained within the learning platform. The course has been designed by subject matter experts and includes interviews with leading experts, aligned to the course outcomes. The course is an immersive experience that includes a mix of content including video introductions and video content, impactful readings, learning checks, and interactive elements – all which can be completed at your own pace.
How much time will I need to spend?
Each course will require 16-20 hours to complete. You will have 90 days access from the time of registration to complete the course. After 90 days, the course will be closed.
Do I have to be online at a certain time of day?
No, you do not have to be online at a specific time. You complete the coursework at the times and places that fits your schedule. Each course is designed for working professionals who are balancing their work, family and community commitments.
When do I start?
You can start the course as soon as you register! You will automatically be directed to the interactive learning environment.
How long will I have access to the course?
You will have 90 days from the time of registration to complete the course.
What is the refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for courses. Refunds may be considered under exceptional circumstances on a case-by-case basis. Please contact powered@athabascau.ca for more information.
Are there tests or quizzes involved?
There will be activities, assignments, and short quizzes within the course to ensure you understand the content. All quizzes are designed to be accessible and easy to complete by engaging in the course content. Within each module, you will have the answers to each evaluation.
What are the computer requirements for this course?
You should have access to a Mac, PC, or tablet with an Internet connection, with Safari, Chrome, Microsoft Edge or Firefox as a browser. Here is a link that outlines browser support:
https://documentation.brightspace.com/EN/brightspace/requirements/all/browser_support.htm
For virtual sessions:
- Speakers/headphones
- Web camera and microphone
Learners that want to use their smart phone to access the courses can also download the D2L Pulse App for free to access the course available on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.d2l.brightspace.student.android&hl=en_CA
Or the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/brightspace-pulse/id1001688546
Does this course have prerequisites?
This course does not have a required prerequisite.
Who do I contact if I need help?
You can contact powered@athabascau.ca for assistance with any questions you may have. We are here to help!