Connecting society-changing research with policymakers
The Block Center at Carnegie Mellon University addresses societal problems at the intersection of social sciences and technology.
AI, robotics, machine learning, and advanced manufacturing have profoundly impacted our society, economy, and daily lives. Yet automation is displacing workers across many industries. Algorithms are driving decision-making in powerful, unseen (and unforeseen) ways. New platforms and networks are reshaping how we view and engage with our world.
The Block Center seeks out results-oriented projects that align with our three focus areas: how emerging technologies will alter the future of work, how AI and analytics can be harnessed for social good, and how innovation in these spaces can be more inclusive and improve quality of life for all. We then support work that shows the greatest promise for delivering actionable policy impact.
Focus Areas
The Future of Work
How will technology change the nature of work? What types of jobs will no longer be done by humans? Who is at risk of being left behind?
Responsible AI
How can artificial intelligence and analytics increase justice and reduce inequality? Can we design algorithms which are transparent and fair? How do we design machines that are worthy of our trust?
Seeding Societal Futures
How can technology be used to reskill displaced workers? What new work opportunities will technology create? What solutions can we create to alleviate human suffering?
New Framework for Using AI in Health Care Considers Medical Knowledge, Practices, Procedures, Values.
Health care organizations are looking to artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve patient care, but their translation into clinical settings has been inconsistent, in part because evaluating AI in health care remains challenging. In a new article, researchers propose a framework for using AI that includes practical guidance for applying values and that incorporates not just the tool’s properties but the systems surrounding its use.The article was written by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, The Hospital for Sick Children, the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Columbia University, and the University of Toronto. It is published in Patterns.
Operationalizing the NIST AI Risk Management Framework - Summary Report
In July 2023, the Responsible AI Initiative of Carnegie Mellon University’s Block Center for Technology and Society (RAI) hosted the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for a discussion on “Operationalizing the NIST Risk Management Framework”. The convening brought together Carnegie Mellon researchers, academic colleagues, and industry, nonprofit and government practitioners with NIST experts for a focused conversation about how to best operationalize the Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework (RMF) released by NIST in January of 2023.
RAI is proud to release a summary report of the event, including real-world use cases and key takeaways from the event.
Forlzzi Briefs Senators on AI in the Workforce
Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science Professor Jodi Forlizzi on Tuesday shared four recommendations with U.S. senators to ensure that innovations in artificial intelligence are sustainable, responsible and work for workers.
Carnegie Mellon University's Block Center for Techology and Society Shares AI Expertise with Policymakers in Washington, D.C.
On September 27, experts from Carnegie Mellon University’s (CMU) Block Center for Technology and Society participated in a roundtable discussion with members of the New Democrat Coalition Artificial Intelligence (AI) Working Group and the Problem Solvers Caucus to inform policymakers of the latest advancements, opportunities, and challenges surrounding AI. The meetings were facilitated by Rep. Susie Lee (NV-03), a double alumna of CMU, Whip of the New Democrat Coalition and Vice-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus.
Governing AI through Acquisition and Procurement
Professor Rayid Ghani discussed government procurement as a strategy to promote responsible AI in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs full committee meeting on Thursday, 9/14.
Faculty Director Dr. Ramayya Krishnan Testimony - Transparency in Artificial Intelligence
Faculty Director Dr. Ramayya Krishnan testified on the need for transparency in the development of Artificial Intelligence in front of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Data Security on Tuesday, 9/12.
With regional coalition, the Block Center wins federal Build Back Better grant to increase opportunity in the AI and Robotics economy.
The coalition represents one of 21 regions that will receive funding out of a pool of 529 applicants. For this effort, the Block Center will bring together CMU's experts in AI, Robotics, and Education Technologies with community-based educators in the southwestern PA region to help citizens gain the skills that our changing economy demand.
U.S. Department of Commerce appoints Block Center Faculty Director Dr. Ramayya Krishnan to National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee
Using Data-Driven Tools to Help Reopen the PA Economy
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has partnered with CMU to make informed, data-driven economic and public health decisions.
Critical Technologies for a Post-Covid-19 World
Considerations for restarting a more resilient and robust U.S. economy during and after the pandemic.
Past Event Highlights
In this panel from the National Academy of Public Administration's 2022 Fall Meeting, Block Center Faculty Director, Ramayya Krishnan, moderates a discussion on technology's impact on workforce development.
In this panel from the National Academy of Public Administration's 2022 Fall Meeting, Former Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh, William Peduto, and Former Mayor of the City of Chattanooga, Andy Berke, sit down to discuss job growth and creation.
Panel: Professors Jodi Forlizzi and Nikolas Martelaro with UNITE HERE, TWU, and ATU at the 29th AFL-CIO National Convention
Keith Block delivers one of the keynote addresses at the Intersect@CMU conference, Innovating a Sustainable Future for All, on February 10, 2022.
A Policy Maker's Guide to AI
Artificial intelligence has the potential to help ensure more people get the services they need. But in order for these systems to be both effective and fair, they need to be developed with community input and values in mind. Our Executive Director Scott Andes discusses strategies for promoting safe, effective and equitable scale in the deployment of AI in local and state governments. Read the report now.
NSF Funds Block Center Projects
Tracking the effects of emerging technologies on manufacturing industries. Re-skilling marginalized workers for the digital economy. Helping low-income mothers get to work. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is here, and we're making sure no one is left behind. Learn more about our three projects funded by the National Science Foundation.
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