What are ORI Learning Hubs?
In the fall of 2021, ORI launched two pilot virtual learning hubs for undergraduate students at McGill University and the University of Waterloo. At these virtual learning hubs, all students—regardless of background—could learn about the field of AI and robot ethics, connect with peers, and shape their own approach to how they want to solve the current societal and ethical challenges with implementing autonomous technology. In 2022, ORI learning hubs were run for the second year at two universities, McGill and University of Guelph. Students who joined and led the learning hubs felt a wonderful sense of community and learned about ethical and social issues of autonomous technology by engaging with the topics in an interdisciplinary environment. Some highlighted that their learning hub experience shaped their next career direction. Past ORI Learning Hub student leaders reflected on their experience in a short blog post: 2022 ORI Learning Hubs: Filling the Gap in Undergraduate AI Ethics Discourse.
After running the program for two years and seeing its impact, we decided to move towards a format that allows a wider range of individuals to create such spaces. We’ve compiled and publicized all other necessary information into a guide so that you can start a group at your university or elsewhere.
Start your learning hub today!
We want to make it easier for students, professionals, and the general public to participate in discussions about the ethical and social implications of autonomous technology. Our guide provides a basic starter kit of readings and logistics tips.
- Are you a graduate or an undergraduate student interested in AI and robot ethics?
- Are you a professional who is interested in engaging with peers about AI and robot ethics topics? W
- Would you like to help facilitate interdisciplinary conversation and create an inclusive community at your own institution around these topics?
If so, you can use our guide to create a learning hub at your institution or local community.
What’s in the Learning Hub Guidelines?
Our guide consists of the following components:
- Reading materials, resources, and discussion questions for 12 sessions.
- Tips on how to spread the word about your local Learning Hub.
- A recommended meeting format consisting of a review of the readings: a review of the week’s reading, group-wide or segmented discussions, and a reflection period.
- Suggestions on how to contact your participants and keep in touch with them after the session and beyond.