Data x Direction
Examining how data science practices and tools intersect with ethical decision-making, human-centered AI, and governance frameworks.
Data x Direction is an initiative hosted under JOPRO’s Society Ethics Technology (SET) working group. The project is designed to explore how data science practices and tools intersect with ethical decision-making, human-centered AI, and governance frameworks. Data x Direction originated as part of Jesse Parent’s capstone project at the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute in the School of Computing, Information and Data Science at the University of California, San Diego.
In an era where data increasingly drives institutional, technological, and societal decisions, understanding how data shapes — and is shaped by — human systems is critical. Data x Direction addresses this need by analyzing both technical developments and ethical frameworks in the fields of data science, AI, and emerging technology.
Through written publications, research summaries, public-facing explainers, discussion series and interviews, and data science tool reviews, Data x Direction aims to:
- Illuminate how data tools and methodologies influence decision-making processes;
- Investigate the ethical challenges surrounding data use, governance, and AI system development;
- Connect technical research with human-centered frameworks for leadership, innovation, and responsible practice.
The project operates through two primary channels:
- Research and Review: Examining data tools (e.g., explainability techniques, auditing methods), policy frameworks, and emerging responsible AI initiatives to produce critical analyses and practical insights.
- Public Engagement: Publishing accessible content and collaborative academic spaces to promote transparency, responsible innovation, and interdisciplinary dialogue.
Data x Direction is supported by the Orthogonal Research and Education Laboratory (OREL), as well as forthcoming partnerships at the University at Albany, State University of New York and other academic institutions. The project provides early career researchers and students with opportunities for honing data science skills, professional development, interdisciplinary research experience, and public scholarship. Through this work, Data x Direction seeks to contribute to the ongoing effort to align technological development with ethical, sustainable, and human-centered values.
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