3.1. Introduction
Jace Hargis
Artificial intelligence does not exist in a vacuum. Every model, dataset, and output reflects human choices about what is collected, how it is trained, and where it is deployed. This makes ethics foundational, not optional. As educators, professionals, and community members, we must ask: What values guide our use of AI? Whose interests are advanced? Whose voices are missing? This module begins by framing why ethics matters and how responsible use of AI starts with human judgment and accountability.
Module 3 Learning Outcomes
- Identify ethical risks and responsibilities related to AI in higher education
- Apply ethical frameworks to assess fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI use
- Analyze AI case studies and articulate informed responses using evidence-based reasoning.
đź“– Analogy: The Compass (click to expand)
Think of AI development and use as setting out on a long journey. Data, algorithms, and hardware may provide the maps, but ethics is the compass. A map tells you possible routes; the compass ensures you travel in the right direction. Without it, even the most advanced tools can lead us somewhere harmful. Ethics helps us keep sight of where we should go, not just where we can go.
Key Idea: Shared Global Perspectives
Across organizations and governments, there is surprising agreement on the values that should guide AI. Documents from UNESCO, the OECD, the European Union, and the U.S. all converge on key principles: fairness, transparency, accountability, privacy, and the need for human oversight. While the language differs, the underlying consensus is clear: responsible AI use requires centering human values and safeguarding human dignity.
đź“š Weekly Reflection Journal
Before diving deeper, take five minutes to jot down your current thoughts: What does “ethical AI” mean to you? Where in your teaching, research, or professional life do you see the biggest ethical questions emerging?
Quick Self-Check
Test your baseline understanding of AI ethics by answering this short question.
Looking Ahead
This introduction sets the stage for our deeper dive into AI ethics. In the next chapter, we will examine the foundations of AI ethics, exploring the core values and principles that shape responsible use.
