Overcoming Algorithm Aversion: A Workshop with Jessica Outlaw and Berkeley Dietvorst
While there’s evidence that algorithms can be biased against humans, what you may not know is that humans can also be biased against algorithms. Researchers like Professor Berkeley Dietvorst of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business have found that people trust humans forecasts more than algorithmic models, even when the algorithm objectively outperforms the human.
“People are especially averse to algorithmic forecasters after seeing them perform, even when they see them outperform a human forecaster. This is because people more quickly lose confidence in algorithms than human forecasters after seeing them make the same mistake.”
— Berkeley Dietvorst
With an ~2.5 quintillion bytes of data being created daily, humans can benefit from relying on algorithms to inform their decision-making. Product creators can develop more useful algorithms designed around what people actually want by better understanding people’s beliefs and attitudes about algorithms. Here are a couple high level findings from Professor Dietvorst’s research:
- Humans have almost no tolerance for error in algorithmic error. They expect algorithms to make perfect predictions and when they don’t, they are quick to abandon algorithms for human forecasters.
- Humans have faith in the ability for other humans to learn from their mistakes, but don’t believe that algorithms can learn from their mistakes in the same way.
- Humans are more satisfied by algorithms if they can customize them (even just a little)
On April 8th, VR/AR behavioral researcher Jessica Outlaw and Professor Dietvorst will host a free workshop on how product creators can develop algorithms that humans can rely on. Come to this free event to learn:
- 3 Principles of human centered algorithm design
- Strategies to overcome algorithmic aversion
- Rebuild trust after the algorithm makes a mistake
Additionally, they will discuss the underlying beliefs, biases, and attitudes of consumers in order to help product creators better understand the consumers they are designing for. This workshop is open to all, and ideal for those working at the intersection of VR/AR and AI. Register here to attend the free workshop and learn more about human-centered algorithm design!
