Cultural Biases Scavenger Hunt

Hack and design with AI-based tools, algorithms and data biases

A joint workshop between Rhode Island School of Design and the Advanced Design Unit at the University of Bologna.

How would a pasta working tool designed by Midjourney look like?
How does ChatGPT advise you in reproducing a traditional ritual?
How should we approach the design process when advised by these technologies?

About

As algorithms continue to shape our world, we must be aware of the biases embedded in the data they use. In this workshop, you'll work with a partner from a different university to create a culture-specific design project based on a given theme. You'll use AI tools to develop a concept for a product, service, graphic identity, or advertising campaign, and then analyze the cultural alignment of your results. Join us to explore the intersection between design and AI technology, and learn how to design with cultural sensitivity in mind.

No previous specific or technical knowledge required. Just be curious, creative and critical!

Activity

In this workshop, you'll create a culture-specific design project on a given theme. Using AI tools and prompts in your native language, you'll develop a concept for a product, service, graphic identity, or advertising campaign that reflects the cultural context while avoiding global imagery.

After swapping designs with your partner, you'll analyze the cultural alignment of each other's results. Through this process, you'll learn about the impact of biases in AI and how to design with cultural sensitivity in mind.

Resulting concepts will be discussed and then presented in the form of blog posts to be published here and on other platforms. We are considering the possibility to follow up and develop some prototypes for an exhibition.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of design and technology, develop a super cool project for your portfolio, connect with students from a different university, and discover the power of AI to create culturally-aware solutions. Join us to expand your design skills and embrace the challenge of creating culture-specific designs.

kickoff slides here

Working Teams