Promoting Equity in Higher Education: A Socio-Technical Approach to AI Fairness

Our project aims to reshape the landscape of AI in education, focusing on addressing bias and discrimination in learning analytics systems within Higher Education (UK), and setting up a Responsible AI framework that can serve as guidance to other HE institutions working on their data strategies.

At the core of our initiative lies the Open University Analyse Dashboard (OUA), a predictive learning analytics system recognised globally for its impact. We delve into the complexities of algorithmic and human biases that may influence student success, investigating innovative interventions to foster a fair and inclusive learning environment.

Our multifaceted approach encompasses five pillars: Fairness, Explainability, Transparency, Accountability, and Social Justice. Through rigorous analysis, we scrutinise the predictive model's performance across diverse student cohorts, examining potential biases based on gender, ethnicity, disability, socio-economic background, and previous qualifications. The goal is clear -- uncover biases and enhance the system's fairness, ensuring that every student receives equitable support.

Transparency is a key focus, and we're pioneering a student dashboard that makes predictions visible not only to educators but also to students.

Accountability is woven into our approach, investigating how tutors react to predictions and ensuring that interventions are unbiased across student profiles.

Beyond the technical aspects, our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is embedded in the project's DNA. We recognise the societal inequalities that exist and strive to mitigate biases in predictive learning analytics systems, thereby fostering an inclusive learning environment.

The impact of our project extends far beyond the realms of academia. By ensuring fair and unbiased support systems, we aim to reduce awarding gaps, creating a level playing field for all students. Education, in our vision, becomes a catalyst for social justice, where opportunities are not bound by socio-economic factors or demographic characteristics.

Through collaboration with regulatory bodies and engagement with the broader education community, we seek to disseminate knowledge, share best practices, and contribute to the ongoing discourse on responsible AI implementation. Our project is not just about algorithms; it's about empowering students, enhancing the educational experience, and creating a ripple effect of positive change in society. As we navigate the intricate intersection of technology and education, our mission is clear -- to create and share knowledge and pave the way for a more inclusive, fair, and transformative educational landscape.