AI and Democracy in “Intro to Ethics” Course

Objectives

Professor Sherry Kao’s Introduction to Ethics course, a core curriculum requirement, targets student engagement by connecting philosophical study with real-world skills in critical thinking and ethical reasoning. By exploring concepts through various media, the objective is to make learning more accessible and adaptable to different learning styles, ultimately improving student retention and application of new knowledge. Five specific assignments have been designed to integrate AI in a way that deepens students’ understanding of philosophical concepts, from ethics to abstract theories, and tests their comprehension in both creative and practical applications. 

The five assignments offer a unique and varied approach to learning, each targeting distinct aspects of philosophical understanding and skill development. From role-playing simulations to creative multimedia projects, these assignments engage students across different dimensions—practical application, conceptual exploration, and critical reflection. These assignments and the course as a whole encourage students to approach ethical theories from multiple perspectives, fostering a more comprehensive and dynamic learning experience. 

Outcomes

Initial implementation of the AI simulation assignment in this class demonstrated that students gained new insights into diverse perspectives, allowing them to practice engagement with opposing viewpoints on controversial issues. The use of AI as a role-playing tool enabled students to experience various assignments authentically, which in turn enhanced their readiness for discussions on difficult topics. Observations indicated that students appreciated the exercise, noting that it prepared them to anticipate and navigate differing viewpoints constructively. 

The remaining four assignments are expected to foster similar outcomes in ethical comprehension, creative thinking, and application of philosophical principles. Through activities such as peer review and group critique, students will refine their understanding of what constitutes effective educational content, both through human and AI-generated insights. 

These projects also serve as a foundation for integrating AI literacy into the curriculum, teaching students to assess AI-generated content critically and identify its ethical, environmental, and societal implications. By evaluating AI’s strengths and weaknesses across different assignments, students not only learn to leverage AI tools but also build an understanding of how AI can be responsibly incorporated into personal and academic practices. Early results suggest that this approach may inspire students to consider the broader ethical questions surrounding AI.

Team