Dean's Distinguished Speaker Series: Carsten Østerlund
As part of the Dean's Distinguished Speaker Series, Saunders College of Business is proud to host Professor and Associate Dean of Research at the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University Carsten Østerlund, Ph.D., on Friday, November 14, 2025, in the Gueldenpfennig Auditorium (1050) in Max Lowenthal Hall. This event is open to all faculty and graduate students.
Carsten Østerlund, Ph.D.
Associate Dean for Research
Professor
School of Information Studies | Syracuse University
View bio
Topic: AI & the Future of Work: Human-Machine Learning in Citizen Science
Abstract: Knowledge work plays an important role in many organizations, but what does that type of work look like when both humans and machine need to learn and improve over time? To address this question the presentation explores the dynamic relationship between human and machine learning in a citizen science context. Building on a sociotechnical approach we re-conceptualize the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) concept from activity theory to include not only human but also machine learning. This allows us to rethink the relationship between human and machine learning. Methodologically, the study utilizes a design approach to describe the ongoing design and evaluation of the Gravity Spy citizen science project. The findings highlight the challenges and opportunities of build dynamic relationships that entangle human and machine learning. The research contributes to the debate around possible futures of work by exploring different divisions of learning and labor among humans a nd AI.
Event Snapshot
When and Where
Who
This is an RIT Only Event
Interpreter Requested?
No