Digital Ethics and Responsibilities (DEAR): A Society-Wide Approach

As has been discussed widely on leveraging AI tools in teaching, learning, and assessments, the critical issues of digital ethics and responsibilities should not be downplayed. As AI and other emerging technologies reshape education, it is essential that all stakeholders consider the implications of using them. The DEAR (Digital Ethics and Responsibilities) Project is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower students, teachers, and society to make informed, responsible decisions in the digital age.

Guided by insights from the kick-off study on perceptions of digital ethics and responsibilities, the DEAR Project aims to raise awareness of digital ethics and responsibilities in society. While it significantly contributes to higher education, the campaign will extend beyond universities, benefiting secondary and primary schools, as well as other community sectors, making it a society-wide educational effort. It is believed that only through such a wide-reaching approach can foster a culture of ethical responsibility in the digital age.

Key initiatives of the DEAR Project include establishing a global network of digital ethics experts to foster collaboration and resource sharing and developing a digital ethics microcredential that offers targeted learning on digital ethics fundamentals, data and AI ethics, digital wellbeing, etc. The project also organises events like webinars and workshops to engage educators, students, and experts in discussions on digital ethics and creates educational materials such as videos and online resources to promote awareness across society.

The DEAR Project is a work-in-progress initiative, continuously evolving as it addresses the need for digital ethics and responsibilities in the rapidly changing world. This presentation will share key insights from the kick-off study and how the findings have informed the subsequent development of the project – to guide the project as it expands its reach, ensuring that the initiative remains relevant and impactful for students, teachers and society at large.