DEPICT: A Framework for Ethical Reasoning for Statistics and Data Science

Oregon Convention Center 

The recent revision of the American Statistical Association (ASA) Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice combined with increased media attention on ethical data science algorithms has prompted our profession to renew its commitment to ethics education. We have developed DEPICT, a six-phase ethical reasoning process tailored to statistics and data science. We will present overviews of ethics paradigms and the ASA Ethical Guidelines followed by a deep dive into the DEPICT process. Participants will Define ethical dilemmas; Explore possible resolutions; Plan resolutions; anticipate issues associated with Implementation; Contemplate their actions; and Transcend to incorporate key learnings to avoid future dilemmas. The course consists of interactive exercises to learn ethical frameworks, guidance, and reasoning followed by applications in complex, nuanced case studies. Attendees will participate in facilitated small group discussions as they apply the framework, reporting key elements of their small group discussion to the larger group. Participants will develop multi-perspective views and debate the pros and cons of various resolutions based on professional guidance. This course is appropriate for students, faculty, early career professionals, and managers in any application area. Participants will learn how to apply DEPICT as well as teach or mentor ethical reasoning in statistics and data science.

Committee on Professional Ethics