Service learning in Ethics of AI and Robotics to promote critically conscious computing practice

The University of Michigan’s restructured CSE 543 course, Ethics of AI and Robotics, addresses the ethical challenges arising from the widespread use of AI by preparing graduate students to understand and evaluate the socio-technical impacts of AI systems. The course integrates service learning to offer students practical experience through community-based projects, enhancing their grasp of real-world implications. In Fall 2024, students collaborated with the HEART clinic, a pro bono physical therapy service, to tackle documentation challenges with AI solutions. This partnership not only aids student learning but also provides practical benefits to the local community.

Focused on critically conscious computing practices (Padiyath, 2024), the course encourages students to reflect on AI’s societal implications while engaging deeply with community needs. Feedback from students and community partners will inform refinements for future course offerings, such as in Fall 2025, adjusting grading practices to better reflect the pace and input of community collaborations. The university aims to extend the impact of this innovative educational model by studying its effectiveness with Michigan Engineering’s CRLT-Engin and sharing insights at academic forums like the SIGCSE Technical Symposium. These efforts strive to enhance AI ethics education and promote community-focused, critically conscious learning in engineering.

Project Team

Funding

This team was awarded $6538 in funding in Spring 2025.