AI in our lives - six things that seniors can do today!

We need to think about 2030 right now, and consider the education system and whether it will produce the right outcomes that allow our new generations to contribute in an AI controlled society. Jobs will change, new skills will be valued and education will be revolutionised. Will we value critical thinking skills ahead of rote learning?

1. We need to start a debate about policies, ethics and control of AI. We need to consider all the possible scenarios (positive and negative). We don’t need to be technical wizards. Creative and imaginative thinkers will be highly valued.

2. At an individual level we need to know what our children are being taught about AI and what educational policies are being adopted. This is a policy matter for school boards of trustees and for government. Let’s ask our young people for their opinions.

3. If we are in the workforce we should ask about our employers’ AI policy. Ask where data is being held – on office computers, online, or in secure platforms.  There may be privacy concerns, disinformation and hate speech rules and sensitive data that should not be uploaded.

4. Control of AI is out of the question. The genie is out of the bottle. However we can influence the governance issues at local, national and international levels. Talk to your school boards, local councils, and local MP about the big AI issues. Find out who is using AI and for what purpose? Share your viewpoints with your (grand)children. When asked for your personal information, ensure that your privacy and your rights are protected.

5. Consider other people’s rights and opinions about the value of their data, especially when considering cultures other than our own.