UCLIC Seminar, 17 January 2024. Jay Cunningham

Recording of UCLIC Research Seminar of Jay Cunningham, University of Washington.
Seminar Title: Critical Technology Practices & Social Impact
Abstract: In our rapidly advancing technological era, the potential for transformative impact on society is unparalleled. The promises of increased efficiency, safety, and sustainability are altruistic yet we cannot ignore the imperfections that permeate our society and manifest within these technologies. How might stewards of technology engage critical practices that promote a landscape of just and equitable tech futures-now? This talk critically examines technology’s implications on social structures, challenging designers to confront the uncomfortable reality when technology perpetuates harmful ideologies. By emphasizing responsible design and design justice in human-centered engineering, we aim to redefine technical artifacts as tools of liberation, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable communities. Central to this discussion are themes of power, allyship, and the evangelism of technologists in fostering inclusive and compassionate solidarity, thereby harnessing innovations that positively impact our broader society. Join us in envisioning a future where technology is harnessed to uplift and empower the voices that need it most.
Biography: Jay L. Cunningham is a computer scientist, scholar and researcher dedicated to promoting responsibility and fairness in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) systems, data science and human-computer interaction (HCI). He innovates on technology design through human-centered approaches of inclusive design, algorithmic & design justice and technology public policy. Cunningham’s work spans critical computing and technology practices, specifically focusing on advancing responsible design to foster more equitable automated speech recognition and natural language technology experiences for Black/African American English speakers. Jay is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Human Centered Design and Engineering (HCDE) at the University of Washington, where he previously earned his Master of Science. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Civic Engagement and Leadership from The University of Alabama. He has also made significant industry contributions as a visiting student researcher and intern at Google’s People + AI, Apple Human-centered AI/ML, and Microsoft Research Fairness in AI. Jay’s work and scholarship has been recognised by prestigious programs such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, the GEM Engineering Ph.D Fellowship, Gates Millennium Scholars Program, Google Award for Inclusive Research, and the SSRC Just Tech Fellowship.
Link: www.ucl.ac.uk/...