Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a topic of both fascination and concern, especially when it comes to its impact on our daily lives, freedoms, and educational systems. Amy Bruckman, Regents’ professor and Senior Associate Chair in the School of Interactive Computing in the College of Computing at Georgia Tech, is a leading researcher in her field, shedding light on the positive potential of AI and its role in shaping a better future.
A Scholar’s Odyssey
Professor Bruckman embarked on her academic career at Harvard University, where she received her undergraduate degree in physics in 1987. Her intellectual journey continued at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she earned her PhD from the Epistemology and Learning Group at the Media Lab in 1997.
Today, Professor Bruckman’s research primarily focuses on social computing, collaboration, social movements, content moderation, and internet research ethics. She is recognized as an ACM Fellow and a member of the ACM SIGCHI (Association for Computing Machinery’s Special Interest Group on Computer-Human Interaction) Academy.
Making an impact in her field.
In 2022, Professor Bruckman’s book, Should You Believe Wikipedia? explored the dynamics of online communities and the creation of knowledge in the digital age. Here Bruckman addresses critical questions about the reliability of online information and the role of AI in shaping content.
“AI is not a threat but a tool that, when used judiciously, can enhance the quality of life for ordinary individuals and create new opportunities.”
Professor Amy Bruckman
Professor Bruckman is not merely an observer but an active participant in the evolving landscape of AI. With support from the Institute for Humane Studies’ Expense Support Grant, Bruckman has been able to continue to delve into the multifaceted world of AI, large language models, content moderation, and its implications for society.
IHS Support: Fostering Positive Change
Professor Bruckman’s journey is intricately woven with the support she received from the Institute for Humane Studies. The IHS expense support grant enabled her to continue to conduct crucial research on the nature of online communities, contributing valuable insights to the ongoing discourse about the impact of AI on society.
In addition to her groundbreaking research, Professor Bruckman’s commitment to excellence extends to the classroom. Her exceptional teaching skills have been acknowledged through the Georgia Tech Student Recognition of Excellence in Teaching award for the last three consecutive years, showcasing her dedication to nurturing the future generation of scholars.
Looking Ahead
In her blog on Medium, Bruckman took a prescient stance on the integration of AI into education that is reflected in academia today. Drawing parallels with the introduction of calculators, Bruckman envisioned a future where writing exams will evaluate not just what one can do without AI but also the creative possibilities AI brings to the table.
The future is today, and as we navigate the intricate relationship between AI, education, and society, Professor Amy Bruckman’s work stands as a beacon of optimism. Through her research, she emphasizes the importance of understanding AI as a tool that, when guided by ethical considerations, can contribute to a brighter future.
The Institute for Humane Studies continues to play a crucial role in supporting scholars like Professor Bruckman and fostering a community where intellectual exploration thrives. To learn more about IHS scholars, programs, and opportunities, visit TheIHS.org. Join us in shaping a future where the positive power of AI transforms communities and lives.
