Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics -

Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics

Supporting information and technology practices and policies that break down barriers.

Research Projects

Collaborative Research: ER2: Developing Educational Resources for the Ethical Use of Pervasive Data
Principal Investigator(s): Jessica Vitak
Funder: National Science Foundation
Research Areas: Data Privacy and Sociotechnical Cybersecurity > Human-Computer Interaction > Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics > Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval > Social Networks, Online Communities, and Social Media
This project develops educational resources and training to promote ethical practices in the collection, storage, and analysis of pervasive data from digital platforms. By creating case studies, interactive modules, and “train the trainer” programs, it aims to enhance responsible research practices among computing students and early-career researchers.
Developing and Investigating Data Science Interventions Connected to University Athletics to Address Systemic Racism in Undergraduate STEM Education (better known as DataGOAT)
Principal Investigator(s): Tamara Clegg
Funder: National Science Foundation
Research Areas: Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization > Future of Work > Health Informatics > Human-Computer Interaction > Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics > Social Networks, Online Communities, and Social Media > Youth Experience, Learning, and Digital Practices
This project, DataGOAT, engages Black male collegiate athletes in data science by connecting their sports performance and health data to STEM learning. It aims to overcome racialized stereotypes, foster STEM identities, and create educational pathways through courses, internships, and data analysis tools, benefiting both participants and the broader educational community.
Information Technology Access RERC
Principal Investigator(s): J. Bern Jordan Amanda Lazar Hernisa Kacorri
Funder: DHHS-Administration for Community Living Other Federal
Research Areas: Accessibility and Inclusive Design > Human-Computer Interaction > Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics > Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval > Youth Experience, Learning, and Digital Practices
The University of Maryland Information Technology RERC aims to improve accessibility for people with disabilities through research, technology development, and standards creation. Key initiatives include individualizing generative AI, enhancing usability for older adults, developing cross-disability solutions, and creating open-source tools and guidelines to ensure broad, equitable access to information and communication technologies.