In this workshop, we will examine how to build engaging translational projects that make the sociopolitical impacts of emerging technologies such as AI more accessible to the public. Specifically, we will focus on how to leverage creative technology, such as games and interactive explainers, for educational and advocacy purposes. Drawing on projects we have worked on as case studies, we will share our experiences in moving between academic research and public-facing work and give insight into the process of building educational games and interactive experiences for the general public. Simultaneously, we will invite the audience to share their own insights, experiences, and find opportunities for further ideation and collaboration.

The workshop will be structured around giving participants time to play two Mozilla-funded projects we worked on: Survival of the Best Fit (survivalofthebestfit.com), an educational game on AI bias, and The Algorithm (whatsthealgorithm.com), an interactive explainer on social media’s recommendation algorithms. Participants will be invited to give feedback on both projects, while we provide more insight into the behind the scenes that went into different design, development, and writing decisions. Through these projects, we will share (and seek) best practices for creative educational projects, accessible translational work, and navigating the intersection of research, art, and advocacy. While the workshop will be geared to those interested in public-facing tech education, it will be open and accessible to everyone, regardless of field and prior experience, or lack thereof.