๐ The Guided Inquiry Process
This project follows the guided inquiry method, where you drive your own research using AI tools to investigate a complex ethical question. The stages are:
Question โ Word List โ Hypothesis โ Data Collection โ Analysis โ Conclusion
Note: Phase 4 expects more independence, deeper critical analysis, and consideration of multiple perspectives.
Stage 1-2: Develop Your Inquiry Question
Formulate a complex, open-ended question about AI ethics. Your question should require analysis of multiple sources and perspectives.
Suggested Focus Areas:
- Algorithmic Justice: How do AI systems perpetuate or challenge existing inequalities?
- Data Sovereignty: Who should control Indigenous data used to train AI?
- AI in Education: How does AI-assisted learning impact student agency and critical thinking?
- Environmental Ethics: What is the environmental cost of training large AI models?
- Labor & Automation: How should society respond to AI-driven job displacement?
๐ MY INQUIRY QUESTION:
Self-Check: Does your question require you to compare perspectives, evaluate evidence, or make an argument? If yes, you're on track.
Stage 3: Key Concepts & Terminology
Identify 10-12 key terms, concepts, or frameworks relevant to your inquiry. For each, note why it matters to your question.
| Term/Concept | Why It's Relevant to My Question |
|---|---|
(Add more rows on separate paper if needed)
Stage 4: Working Hypothesis
Formulate a clear hypothesis that can be evaluated through research. Include your reasoning based on existing knowledge.
๐ MY HYPOTHESIS:
What prior knowledge or experience led you to this hypothesis?
Stage 5: Multi-Source Data Collection
Research your question using at least THREE different AI tools PLUS at least ONE traditional source (news article, academic paper, documentary). Critically evaluate each source for bias and reliability.
Source Evaluation Table:
| Source | Key Information | Potential Bias/ Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| AI Tool 1: ______________ | ||
| AI Tool 2: ______________ | ||
| AI Tool 3: ______________ | ||
| Traditional Source: ______________ |
Stage 6: Critical Analysis & Synthesis
Synthesize your findings by analyzing patterns, contradictions, and deeper implications. This is where your critical thinking shines.
A. Compare & Contrast: How did your AI sources differ from traditional sources? What does this tell you about AI as a research tool?
B. Hypothesis Evaluation: To what extent did your research support or challenge your hypothesis? Use specific evidence.
C. Stakeholder Analysis: Who benefits and who is harmed by the AI systems/practices you researched? Consider power dynamics.
D. Cultural Lens: Apply at least TWO Te Ao Mฤori values (e.g., kaitiakitanga, manaakitanga, rangatiratanga) to evaluate this AI ethics issue.
Stage 7: Conclusion & Future Inquiry
Draw a nuanced conclusion that addresses your inquiry question, acknowledges complexity, and proposes future directions.
1. Answer to My Inquiry Question:
2. Why This Matters (Broader Implications for Society, Education, or Technology):
3. Limitations of My Research:
4. Future Research Questions (What would you investigate next?):
๐ Meta-Cognitive Reflection
Reflect on the process of using AI to research AI ethics. What are the paradoxes, ironies, or insights that emerged? How did this experience change your understanding of AI as a tool vs. AI as a subject of critique?
โ Assessment Rubric (Phase 4)
| Stage | Achieved (4) | Merit (5-6) | Excellence (7-8) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Question & Hypothesis | Clear, focused inquiry question with logical hypothesis | Complex question requiring analysis; hypothesis shows depth of prior knowledge | Sophisticated question addressing multiple dimensions; nuanced hypothesis with clear theoretical grounding |
| Data Collection | Multiple sources (AI + traditional); relevant information gathered | Diverse, high-quality sources; critical evaluation of source reliability and bias | Strategic source selection; sophisticated analysis of how source type affects information quality |
| Analysis | Compares sources; evaluates hypothesis; identifies stakeholders | Synthesizes patterns; considers power dynamics; applies cultural framework meaningfully | Deep critical analysis connecting micro (individual) to macro (systemic); insightful integration of Te Ao Mฤori perspectives |
| Conclusion | Clear answer to question; acknowledges implications and limitations | Nuanced conclusion addressing complexity; proposes meaningful future research | Sophisticated conclusion with broader societal implications; identifies ethical tensions and proposes principled approaches |
| Reflection | Reflects on process and learning | Meta-cognitive awareness of research process; considers paradoxes of AI research | Deep philosophical reflection on AI as tool vs. subject; demonstrates transformed understanding |