Investigating Girls' Perspectives and Knowledge Gaps on Ethics and Fairness in Artificial Intelligence in a Lightweight Workshop

Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere, with many children having increased exposure to AI technologies in daily life. We aimed to understand middle school girls' (a group often excluded group in tech) perceptions and knowledge gaps about AI. We created and explored the feasibility of a lightweight (less than 3 hours) educational workshop in which learners considered challenges in their lives and communities and critically considered how existing and future AI could have an impact. After the workshop, learners had nuanced perceptions of AI, understanding AI can both help and harm. We discuss design implications for creating educational experiences in AI and fairness that embolden learners.