The Potential of Diverse Youth as Stakeholders in Identifying and Mitigating Algorithmic Bias for a Future of Fairer AI"

Youth regularly use artificial intelligence (AI) technology, but it is increasingly well-known that AI can have bias. In turn, this bias can cause harm on small and large scales, especially for those underrepresented in tech fields. Recently, users have played active roles in surfacing and mitigating harm from algorithmic bias. However, despite being frequent users of AI, youth have been under-explored as potential contributors to the future of ethical technology. We consider three notions that may be at the root of youth facing barriers to playing an active role in fair AI, which are youth (1) cannot understand the technical aspects of AI, (2) cannot understand the ethical issues around AI, and (3) need protection from serious topics related to bias and injustice. In this study, we worked with youth (N = 30) in first through twelfth grade and parents (N = 6) to explore how youth can be part of identifying algorithmic bias and designing future systems to address problematic technology behavior. We found that youth are capable of identifying and articulating algorithmic bias, often in great detail. Participants suggested different ways users could give feedback for AI that reflects their values of diversity and inclusion. Youth who may have less experience with computing or exposure to societal structures can be supported by peers or adults with more of this knowledge, leading to critical conversations about fair AI. This work illustrates youths' insights, suggesting that they should be integrated in building a future of fair and accountable AI.