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Utilizing collaboration: VILNIUS TECH hosts UPC professor Andrea Aler Tubella for remote lecture on bias and fairness in AI

In an increasingly interconnected academic world, opportunities for international collaboration are more accessible and rewarding than ever. A prime example of this took place recently at VILNIUS TECH, where master’s program students benefited from a remote lecture delivered by professor Andrea Aler Tubella from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya – BarcelonaTech (UPC). The lecture focused on one of the most pressing and thought-provoking topics in artificial intelligence (AI): bias and fairness.

This lecture was not only an opportunity to deepen knowledge on a critical subject but also served as a bridge for fostering international experience among students and educators.

A topic: bias and fairness in AI

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into society, issues of fairness, transparency, and accountability in algorithmic decision-making are coming to the forefront. Dr. Aler Tubella’s lecture delved into these challenges, discussing how biases can creep into AI systems and the ethical implications that follow. From hiring algorithms to healthcare decision-making tools, the impact of AI bias is far-reaching, making it vital for students and researchers alike to approach the subject with a critical eye.

The master’s students at VILNIUS TECH were not only introduced to theoretical frameworks but also practical examples and case studies, offering a comprehensive understanding of how to identify and mitigate bias in AI systems.

For those who want to dive deeper into the concepts of bias and fairness in AI, we’ve got you covered! An interview with professor Andrea Aler Tubella’s insights is available on YouTube.

The value of international perspectives

One of the highlights of the session was the opportunity for students to learn from a professor representing a different cultural and academic background. This international exposure enriched the discussion, broadening the students’ understanding of how AI challenges and solutions manifest across borders.

Such collaborations are important in higher education, as they expand the academic circle and infuse fresh perspectives into the learning environment. Based on the VILNIUS TECH study program administrator, Simona Ramanauskaitė, “Professor Andrea’s expertise provided students with insights that complemented and enhanced their existing knowledge, reflecting the benefits of global academic exchange. This contributes to students’ social skill improvement and wider perception of their participation in the global world.”

MERIT project dedication to international and interdisciplinary collaboration

The lecture aligns perfectly with the goals of the MERIT project, which aims to motivate international and interdisciplinary collaboration among higher education institutions (HEIs). By connecting professors and students from diverse backgrounds to upskill in the advanced digital skill area, MERIT project encourages the sharing of knowledge and expertise to tackle complex, global challenges. The existing daily technologies, with the help of professors’ creativity allow engaging sharing of experience via remote lectures, fostering an inclusive and innovative academic environment.

The MERIT project invites educators, researchers, and students from all disciplines to join this collaborative effort. Whether through remote lectures, research projects, or interdisciplinary workshops, there are countless opportunities to contribute and benefit from a global academic network. If you’re passionate about sharing your expertise, collaborating with HEIs, or simply exploring new academic opportunities, now is the perfect time to get involved. Contact us and we will elaborate on possible collaboration activities!