'Invisible work' of AI falls disproportionately to middle managers, women
It's a common refrain that AI is changing how we work, but new research conducted by the Notre Dame-IBM Tech Ethics Lab, housed in the Institute for Ethics and the Common Good, shows that AI is creating new forms of work and reconfiguring employees' lived experience of work itsel
The integration of AI in the workplace is often touted as a means to increase efficiency and productivity, but a recent study reveals that this technological shift is not without its drawbacks. Middle managers, particularly women, are shouldering a disproportionate amount of "invisible work" related to AI, which includes tasks such as data cleaning, algorithm training, and ensuring AI systems are fair and unbiased. This invisible work is often not recognized or compensated, and it can be a significant burden on those tasked with it.
This phenomenon is particularly concerning given the existing power dynamics in the workplace. Women and middle managers are already often underrepresented in leadership positions and may face biases in their work. The added responsibility of invisible work related to AI may further exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to burnout and decreased job satisfaction. As AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace, it's essential to consider the human impact of these technological changes and ensure that the benefits and burdens are distributed fairly.
As AI continues to transform the modern workplace, it's crucial to watch how organizations address the issue of invisible work. Will companies begin to recognize and compensate employees for the AI-related tasks they perform, or will this work remain invisible and undervalued? Students entering the workforce should be aware of these dynamics and consider how they can navigate the changing landscape of work. By doing so, they can help shape a future where AI is used to augment and support workers, rather than simply displacing or overburdening them.
Originally reported by phys.org. StudentNewsletter adds analysis for science & discovery readers.