IndustrIA: understanding and guiding the ethical uses of AI in Industry 4.0

The era of Industry 4.0 is bringing about significant changes in the world of work, including the development and integration of artificial intelligence (AI). The new applications of AI hold several promises for enhancing human performance but also raise ethical concerns. Despite calls to consider the ethical implications of AI, the advancement of these technologies continues to grow. Several reasons may explain this ongoing development, including considerations related to the intended use of technologies and potential deficits in digital literacy among potential users.

A better understanding of these elements is necessary to effectively guide the integration of best practices in interacting with AI. This project aims to assess the potential relationship between digital literacy, AI acceptability, understanding of ethical issues, and usage factors to define recommendations for the improved integration of AI in industry.

An interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral perspective (involving colleges, universities, and industry) at the intersection of cognitive sciences, education sciences, ethics, and technological development will be prioritized. A hybrid approach (combining questionnaires, interviews, and laboratory studies) will be employed to highlight predictors of understanding ethical issues, including components of digital literacy and usage. Recommendations for a competency framework for training on ethical issues and AI integration will be developed to better guide the training of Industry 4.0 personnel.

The synergy between academic and industrial partners involved in developing trustworthy AI technologies will promote student training and lead to the co-creation of ethical and responsible AI usage frameworks.