ABOUT DECODE

 

Understanding the Data Behind AI

Artificial intelligence systems depend on complex forms of data, including training datasets, model files and learned parameters, configuration files, evaluation logs, prompt histories, and system documentation. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in libraries, archives, and other information environments, information professionals need new knowledge and competencies for evaluating and stewarding these materials.

 

What DECODE Is Investigating

DECODE examines three central questions:

  1. What types, characteristics, and risk profiles of AI data are most important for library and archival stewardship?
  2. What knowledge gaps exist among library and information science practitioners and students regarding the data that drive AI systems?
  3. How can foundational knowledge about AI data be effectively integrated into graduate library and information science education?

 

What DECODE Will Produce

Over three years, the project will develop a conceptual framework for understanding AI data, a competency framework for library and archival professionals, a tested graduate curriculum module, professional development resources, practitioner briefs, and scholarly research.

 

Project Support

DECODE is a three-year Applied Research project made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (Grant No. RE-260375-OLS-26). The project is led by Indiana University Bloomington.