Responsible tech: this is how we ensure new technologies meet public values

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Responsible Tech: On Public Values and Emerging Technologies is an exploration of responsible decisions in the digital transformation of education and research. This is needed as the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and eXtended reality (XR) sets in motion massive changes. With this paper, we aim to facilitate the conversation. What is desirable for the near and distant future of education and research? And, where do we collectively want to go as an education and research sector?

Using emerging technologies with an eye on public values

Emerging technologies are innovations whose development paths and potential applications are still uncertain. That these technologies take into account our public values is not a given.

Responsible tech looks at how we can achieve that. Namely, it merges the discussion around public values with the specific challenges posed by new technologies.

Situation outline and recommendations for getting started with responsible tech

This discussion paper from SURF not only outlines the current situation, in which there are both rapid advances and high risks. It also provides an overview of the current situation. It also provides a clear step-by-step plan with which institutions can shape their own responsibility and make an informed start with responsible tech.

Here, responsibility is not a theoretical concept, but a practical skill. For each of the steps towards responsible tech, the paper offers concrete tools that you can immediately try out in practice.

How do we ensure that the applications we develop and use work according to our values? How can we take responsibility for the impact of applications on end users? And how do we make sure we include these questions in our innovation processes?

If you want to think further about these and other questions around responsible tech, download the discussion paper Responsible Tech: On Public Values and Emerging Technologies via the link below.

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Responsible Quantum 

Quantum technologies (QT) are rapidly evolving and SURF takes active part these developments, such as quantum computing and the quantum internet (see more). These technologies present both incredible possibilities and significant risks. Our new report, "Preparing for a future with responsible quantum technologies?", explores how we can responsibly embed these technologies in research and education.

By addressing key questions around security, accessibility, and ethical responsibility, this report helps us prepare for the potential impacts of QT on scientific practices, data security, and educational systems. In line with our commitment to responsible tech, this report is a first step in understanding and shaping the future of quantum technology to ensure it aligns with public values. 

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