A recent study conducted by the International Science Council sheds light on a concerning trend in the international landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) policy and research.
A recent study conducted by the International Science Council (ISC) sheds light on a concerning trend in the international landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) policy and research.
Despite significant policy and strategic action surrounding generative AI and research worldwide, there exists a glaring lack of knowledge exchange between countries. The ISC’s study aims to bridge this isolation and identify key issues around a technology poised to revolutionize research on a global scale.
Dr. Mathieu Denis, head of the Centre for Sciences Futures at the ISC and one of the authors of the study, emphasized the importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of AI. He noted that increased collaboration and coordination of AI strategies for science could enhance collective capacity to address global challenges such as climate change effectively.
One of the study’s critical findings highlights a disconnect between global discussions on AI impacts and national-level AI strategies. Despite ongoing global discussions on the ethical implications of AI, these considerations often fail to permeate national roadmaps for AI integration in science. This disparity raises concerns about ethical data policy, research integrity, and the explainability of AI-driven results.
Moreover, the study revealed significant variation in AI approaches among 12 mostly small-to-medium-sized countries surveyed. Surprisingly ambitious AI strategies were observed in some countries, highlighting the diverse landscape of AI adoption and policy.
Dr. Denis expressed concerns about the potential consequences of this disconnect, emphasizing that insufficient attention to the specific conditions for successful AI integration in research could lead to adverse outcomes, including compromised research data policies and ineffective regulatory environments.
The ISC’s study aims to map out the global terrain of AI policy and activity to guide future initiatives aimed at assisting countries in responding to the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in science.
As an ambitious project undertaken by the ISC, the study involved a comprehensive review of literature on generative AI and research, alongside insights from case studies representing countries worldwide. These efforts culminated in a framework outlining key issues for consideration when integrating AI into research systems.
A follow-up report is anticipated later this year, which will feature an expanded number of case studies and geographical representation, offering recommendations for more coordinated and collaborative science policies for AI.
The study underscores the critical need for collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by AI in research. Despite active reflections and strategies within individual countries, there is a notable lack of exchange on the issue globally. Dr. Denis emphasized that the study serves as a catalyst for collective knowledge sharing and identification of key documents and initiatives.
Moving forward, the ISC will continue its efforts to engage with the global science community through regional workshops and consultations. These initiatives aim to validate concepts outlined in the study and foster understanding of the priorities, successes, and challenges encountered by countries in integrating AI into research systems.
In conclusion, the ISC’s study reaffirms its commitment to exploring the impact of AI on science and societies. With additional studies and initiatives planned in the coming months and years, the ISC invites science leaders worldwide to engage in collaborative efforts to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in research.