AP CSP Day 3 - Bias in Computing

Course Information

• Course: AP Computer Science Principles
• Unit: Big Idea 3 - Impact of Computing (IOC)
• Lesson: Day 3 (50 minutes)
• Learning Objective: IOC-1.C - Understand bias in computing

Learning Objectives

Primary Goals

Students will be able to:

1. Define what bias in computing is
2. Identify examples of biased algorithms
3. Understand efforts to reduce bias in computing
4. Analyze real-world scenarios involving bias in computing

AP Exam Alignment

• Big Idea 3: Impact of Computing (16-20% of AP Exam)
• Essential Knowledge: IOC-1.C.1, IOC-1.C.2, IOC-1.C.3
• Computational Thinking Practice: 3.A - Evaluate the impacts of computing innovations

Lesson Structure (50 minutes)

Opening Hook (10 minutes)

1.1 Welcome & Lesson Preview (5 minutes)

Teacher Activities:

• Recap previous day's content on the digital divide
• Introduce today's topic on bias in computing

Student Activities:

• Think about: "What are some examples of bias in computing in daily life?"

1.2 Bias Examples Challenge (5 minutes)

Activity: "Identify the Bias"
Instructions:

• Groups of 4-6 students
• Identify biases in given scenarios
• Discuss the importance of reducing bias

Purpose: Activate thinking about bias in computing

Core Content Instruction (20 minutes)

2.1 What is Bias in Computing? (10 minutes)

Definition (IOC-1.C.1):

Bias in computing involves systems producing unfair or discriminatory outcomes due to flawed data or algorithms.

Key Concepts:

• Types of bias: Historical, representational, algorithmic
• Effects: Discrimination, inequality
• Solutions: Diverse datasets, algorithm audits

Case Study: Biased hiring algorithms

• Scenario: Algorithms favoring certain demographics over others

2.2 Common Types of Bias (5 minutes)

Examples:

• Historical bias: Data reflecting past discrimination
• Representational bias: Underrepresentation of certain groups
• Algorithmic bias: Flaws in algorithm design

Discussion Questions:

1. What makes identifying bias challenging?
2. Can you think of an example where bias exists in computing?
3. Why is reducing bias important in computing?

2.3 Advanced Bias Concepts (5 minutes)

Why is it important?:

• Fairness: Ensuring equitable treatment
• Accountability: Holding developers responsible

Discussion Questions:

1. How can we promote fairness in computing?
2. Why is accountability important when addressing bias?

Hands-On Activity (15 minutes)

3.1 Group Project: Analyze Biased Algorithms (15 minutes)

Activity: "Evaluate an Algorithm"
Instructions:

• Groups of 3-4 students
• Analyze a biased algorithm scenario
• Present analysis to the class

Materials:

• **Analysis worksheet
• **Bias checklist

Learning Goals:

• **Understand bias in computing
• **Identify types of bias
• **Apply solutions
• **Present ideas effectively

Assessment:

• **Group participation
• **Analysis quality
• **Application correctness
• **Presentation clarity

Closure & Preview (5 minutes)

4.1 Key Concepts Review (2 minutes)

Today's Learning Highlights:

1. ✅ Defining what bias in computing is
2. ✅ Identifying types of bias
3. ✅ Understanding efforts to reduce bias
4. ✅ Analyzing real-world scenarios

AP Exam Connection:

• These concepts will appear in AP exam multiple choice questions
• Understanding bias in computing is crucial for the Explore Performance Task

4.2 Next Class Preview (3 minutes)

Day 4 Topic: "Privacy and Security"

• Learning Objective: IOC-1.D - Understand privacy and security in computing
• Activity: Exploring data protection techniques
• Homework: Think about a recent algorithm you interacted with. Was it biased?

Supplementary Materials

Activity Card: Analyze Biased Algorithms

Instructions: Students will examine real-world examples of biased algorithms and propose ways to mitigate them.

Knowledge Card: Types of Bias in Computing

Content: Explanations of historical, representational, and algorithmic biases with examples.