AI Image Generation: Advances and Ethical Concerns; How Accessibility in Computer Interfaces Affect Society

Computer usage exists most facets of modern life in the modern world. The accessibility of computers in addition to their function cemented their presence. However, computers were not always as accessible in both form and function. How has accessibility in computer interfaces affect society and how does societal needs influence accessibility development? The STS framework technological determinism applied to this indicates that the development of computers drove changes in society. Social construction on the other hand indicates that societal needs drove the development of computers and their accessibility features. The development of computers was available to only a select few individuals with money and skills to utilize computers, but advancements made logistically and user accessible. Accessibility features have been developed focusing on people with disabilities, but those features have affected a greater audience than originally targeted. Subtitles were developed for deaf people, but became used for foreign language subbing and general use. Accessibility in computers in widely accepted as being a force for positive change, but accessibility to powerful tools is the exception. Cyber tools have made it a much lower bar of entry for people to commit attacks with. The research finds that a combination of both social and technological determinism is correct. With computers changing parts of society while at the same time societal needs driving the development of computers.

School of Engineering and Applied Science
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Technical Advisor: Rosanne Vrugtman
STS Advisor: Bryn Seabrook
Technical Team Members: Joseph Moretto