Tech With a Conscience: Technology Reflects the Ethics of Those Who Shape It

© All Images Courtesy of Ontario Tech University

Tech With a Conscience: Technology Reflects the Ethics of Those Who Shape It

Amid growing concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) and other rapidly advancing technologies, the real question is not what technology can do but what it should do. From job displacement to ethical dilemmas, these innovations challenge us to consider the human impact at every step. Now, more than ever, ethical leadership and a humancentred approach to research and innovation are essential.

At Ontario Tech University, technology isn’t just about hardware and algorithms; it’s equally about human values and responsible decision-making.

Just ask communication ethics researcher Dr. Sharon Lauricella, a longtime advocate of embracing and adopting new technologies such as AI.

“I’m always learning about and trying new tech, particularly those that we use in teaching and learning,” explained Dr. Lauricella. “My students are doing the same, so I use the technologies that my students are adapting to and meet them where they are. Whether it’s in writing, communication, or education, AI is not going to disappear. We need to find ways to use it that help us as a society.”

The Oshawa-based university recently launched ‘Tech with a Conscience,’ a transformative campaign to amplify the university’s research activities, expand campus facilities, and nurture the next generation of ethical leaders who will tackle tomorrow’s challenges, from climate change to equitable health care.

Dr. Steven Murphy, the university’s President and Vice-Chancellor, added, “Tech with a Conscience embodies our belief that technological progress must be guided by the conscious application of ethical choices—decisions that ensure technology serves the greater good. Technology should uplift humanity and serve as a force for positive change.”

Dr. Lauricella believes that Tech with a Conscience means being transparent about what technologies are used and why. She doesn’t use educational technology in class just because it’s new or impressive. She uses it to enhance learning in ways that are positive, transparent, and ethical. New technologies can strengthen human connections, amplify work, and make tasks easier.

“A little initial fear is healthy because it makes you realize that you're doing something different,” said Dr. Lauricella.

“You can explore and be curious. AI, whether it's large-language models, video or images, is trained on human patterns. I remind students that AI is not going to take your job—but someone who knows how to use it will, so you need to be proficient if you want to advance yourself and your career.”

Aspiring leaders need to be open to experimentation and become comfortable with not getting it right the first time.

Dr. Lauricella leads by example.

“That's how everybody learns. Students go to university to learn ‘how’ to learn. When they see me learning alongside them, they’re learning too. If Tech with a Conscience is a fundamental part of every class, meeting and interaction, it will permeate a student’s experience. It becomes a way of life.”

Learn more at ontariotechu.ca/techwithaconscience