This was a tough debate, and I can see both sides. I know that there was a lot of discussion about equitable verses accessibility. The definition of equitable is “fair and impartial”. In my opinion, technology does have the ability to become equitable and to bridge gaps and create ample opportunities but there are some things that keep it from currently being equitable.
Accessibility is a big factor in if technology is able to be equitable. Not everyone has access to technology (wifi, computers, phones, etc). Another great discussion point was that AI shows biases of their creators. It can lead to algorithm discrimination (for lack of better explanation. These biases can be based on race, gender and potentially status. That was a heavy topic in our discussion and one many people have seem to witnessed while working with AI. I do think, that this would be something that could be fixed (by having that generalization of people. I think this area is a big part of where technology fails at being equitable. Another topic where I feel technology fails in the equitability is with privacy.
I think it is fair to say that technology has the ability to be equitable, but we are not there yet. By having all this power and wealth (where technology can expand) in some places but then having places that don’t have access to even simple things like a flushing toilet. – I am not sure who mentioned it but more people have phones than people have a running toilet.
Hello Chloe,
I enjoyed reading your Blog, you highlighted crucial points about technology’s potential and limitations in achieving equity. I found it particularly insightful to discuss how biases in AI can lead to algorithmic discrimination based on race, gender, or status. It was striking to learn that more people have phones than access to a flushing toilet. Your perspective clearly underscores the need for a more equitable distribution of technological resources.
Thanks
Hi Chloe! I enjoyed reading you post. And I agree with you. Equitable distribution of technology is important but we are yet not there. Accessibility is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Your post on the meaning of equity in technology is both insightful and thought-provoking. I particularly appreciate how you distinguish between equity and accessibility, highlighting the challenges of algorithmic biases and the uneven distribution of technological resources. The main takeaway for me is the need for a concerted effort to address these disparities to achieve true technological equity. Given the complexities surrounding equity and technology, what specific policies or initiatives do you think could be most effective in bridging the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not?