Embedding ethics up front in AI and robotics: evidence from future engineers

Area of Science:

• AI Ethics
• Robotics Engineering
• Societal Impact of Technology

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are increasingly integrated into society.
• Ensuring these technologies align with ethical and societal values is a critical challenge.
• Understanding the perspectives of future professionals is essential for responsible development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically investigate how future AI and robotics professionals perceive their ethical responsibilities.
• To identify gaps between ethical awareness and institutionalized engagement in AI and robotics education.
• To propose a model for early-stage ethics integration in AI and robotics engineering.

Main Methods:

• Survey of 98 MSc Robotics and Applied AI students at Cranfield University.
• Analysis of student perceptions regarding ethical risks and engagement with professional codes.
• Qualitative assessment of informal ethical reflection mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Students exhibit strong awareness of AI/robotics risks (e.g., autonomous warfare, surveillance, job displacement).
• Limited engagement with formal professional codes of ethics or structured ethics training was observed.
• Ethical reflection primarily occurs informally through peer discussions and media exposure.

Conclusions:

• A significant gap exists between ethical awareness and institutionalized ethical engagement among future AI engineers.
• The proposed "ethics up front" model aims to embed ethical reflection early in the AI/robotics development lifecycle.
• Integrating ethics through participatory design, professional education, and regulatory alignment is crucial for responsible AI and robotics engineering.