Code Bias

     Shalini Kantayya's documentary, Coded Bias, examines biases present in artificial intelligence systems. The film highlights the risks of digital surveillance and the dishonesty of AI systems by examining the work of MIT researcher Joy Buolamwini. This movie's main goal is to present an open and honest picture of the surveillance tools that police enforcement and other prominent organizations use. According to Buolamwini's research, facial recognition software needs to be more accurate for women, people of colour, and other underrepresented groups. Kantayya also explores the topic of surveillance technology and looks for justice, ethics, and accountability in digital literacy.

     One of the more interesting themes in Coded Bias is how common the issue of digital surveillance is on a day-to-day basis. The film talks about how normal it has become to have surveillance practices, especially in public spaces, and emphasizes the dangers of “datafication”. Datafication covers the aspects of human life and how it is reduced to data points. 

     Within facial recognition technologies, bias algorithms impact marginalized communities, creating systemic injustice rather than reducing it. In scenes of the film, live examples of wrongful arrests being made on misidentification are shown, and it is highlighted that the risks of relying on unregulated technology implement the lack of accountability. Understanding the mechanisms behind AI and datafication allows individuals to recognize and resist these uses of data.

     Additionally, the film’s examination of digital literacy highlights the public's limited understanding of how algorithms influence their lives. The film suggests that this lack of awareness contributes to society’s complacency toward surveillance and biased AI. This shows that companies benefit from user data with little motive to educate the public. Coded Bias emphasizes the urgency of fostering digital literacy to protect civil liberties and advocates for policy reform to hold tech companies accountable.

     As an art teacher, this documentary connected to my beliefs, emphasizing the importance of fostering digital literacy in my students. This not only connects to technical skills but also to develop a critical awareness of how digital systems impact us, often in small ways. Showing students the consequences of algorithmic bias is important as educators since we play a key role in teaching students to question and critically engage with the technology they interact with daily. This awareness is crucial for shaping a generation that is not only digitally skilled but also ethically informed and ready to advocate for fairness and equality in our future of digital technology. 

     In conclusion, Coded Bias is an analysis of flawed technology that calls for action on greater transparency, accountability, and public awareness regarding AI. By linking algorithmic bias with broader issues of surveillance and digital literacy, the film urges viewers to consider the ethical responsibilities of data collection and its profound implications for society. It’s an essential source that we should use within our classrooms for anyone seeking to understand the complex relations of technology, ethics, and human rights in the digital world.