Whole-Person Education for AI Engineers

TL;DR

This study advocates for a whole-person, interdisciplinary approach in AI engineering education, emphasizing ethical, societal, and technical skills to better prepare engineers for responsible AI development.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical framework for integrating ethics and societal considerations into AI engineering education through autoethnographic insights.

Findings

Highlighting the need for global perspectives in AI education

Bridging the gap between academia and industry

Recommending interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical awareness

Abstract

This autoethnographic study explores the need for interdisciplinary education spanning both technical and philosophical skills - as such, this study leverages whole-person education as a theoretical approach needed in AI engineering education to address the limitations of current paradigms that prioritize technical expertise over ethical and societal considerations. Drawing on a collaborative autoethnography approach of fourteen diverse stakeholders, the study identifies key motivations driving the call for change, including the need for global perspectives, bridging the gap between academia and industry, integrating ethics and societal impact, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The findings challenge the myths of technological neutrality and technosaviourism, advocating for a future where AI engineers are equipped not only with technical skills but also with the ethical awareness, social responsibility, and interdisciplinary understanding necessary to navigate the complex challenges of AI development. The study provides valuable insights and recommendations for transforming AI engineering education to ensure the responsible development of AI technologies.