The choice to be made: Potential Hires
In a cautionary move, the University of Nottingham (UNI) has issued a stark warning about the potential pitfalls of employing data, algorithms, and autonomous systems in human resource management. The consequences, UNI argues, could extend beyond the workplace, significantly impacting societal harmony.
UNI's article, titled "When Algorithms Hire and Fire", compels readers to ponder a thought-provoking question: Would you still be employed if an algorithm had determined your job fit?
Embracing this thought-provoking concept, a fascinating online game called "Survival of the Best Fit" invites players to step into the role of a CEO tasked with recruitment. This eye-opening experience magnifies the unforeseen consequences of incorporating AI in hiring practices.
The game was conceptualized by a quartet of innovative students and recent alumni of New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi: Gabor Csapo, Miha Klasinc, Jihyun Kim, and Alia ElKattan. The project was backed by a Mozilla Creative Media Award, further propelling its credibility.
According to Alia ElKattan, one of its creators, the game's core focus lies in exposing users to the ramifications of AI in employment-related decision-making. "Technological advancements are increasingly dictating decisions, making it vital for the public to comprehend the effects AI can have on their personal lives," she explained.
ElKattan emphasized that the game aimed to raise awareness about the necessity for software engineers to develop tools sensitive to social and political factors. "AI recruitment processes can exacerbate existing problems related to bias, equality, and representation in the workforce, potentially causing detrimental socio-economic repercussions," she added.
The game delves deep into the dilemmas besetting AI recruitment processes, shedding light on the ethical quandaries and social consequences of relying excessively on opaque AI systems to make personnel decisions. It offers players an immersive experience that encourages critical reflection on the boundaries between algorithmic decision-making and human judgment in the hiring process.
In a broader context, the project exemplifies NYU Abu Dhabi's commitment to fostering creative thinking and addressing societal challenges through technology-driven innovation. The university's interdisciplinary approach, which seamlessly blends technology, social issues, and arts, is instrumental in producing students capable of addressing complex global challenges.
The online game "Survival of the Best Fit" developed by a group of NYU Abu Dhabi students highlights the significant impact of artificial-intelligence in employment-related decision-making by making players aware of the potential biases, inequalities, and detrimental socio-economic repercussions that can result from over-reliance on AI in hiring practices. Furthermore, it underscores NYU Abu Dhabi's dedication to integrating technology, social issues, and arts in addressing real-world problems by promoting creative thinking and fostering students capable of addressing complex global challenges.
