Shape‐shifting controversies: engaging communities in responsible AI

AI adoption in public services, such as policing, fire prevention, criminal justice, and healthcare is increasing (Dencik et al, 2019). However, those driving this adoption often lack the knowledge and confidence to address responsible AI issues (Dencik et al, 2022), leading to concerns about responsible practices, biased datasets, lack of transparency and accountability (Eubanks, 2018). While citizen and community engagement are considered crucial (CDEI, 2021), participatory methods based on deliberative methodologies still struggle to widen participation to marginalised communities (Hintz et al, 2022). In this paper, we present a methodological approach developed in the context of the Project “Shaping 21st Century AI”: the 'shape-shifter’. Integrating controversy analysis (Marres, 2007; 2015; 2021) and design research (Jansen et al., 2015) this creative strategy engages peer communities of experts, defined as all those committed to genuine debate on AI issues (Funtowicz and Ravetz, 1997). It uses props and materials, enabling a collaborative analysis of AI and society controversies (Marres et al., forthcoming). We will explain how we used the method to facilitate the sharing of understanding, as well as knowledge exchange across a group of experts with diverse backgrounds (Gobbo et al. forthcoming). We will examine the strengths and limitations of the method and outline the next steps to articulate the experiences of communities impacted by AI use in public services. This effort aims to encourage participation in reimagining the adoption of AI innovations.