Mini Assignment: AI and the Environment Data Science • Short Written and Analytical Exercise Prompt: Choose one environmental issue connected to AI, such as energy use in data centers, electronic waste, smart agriculture, climate modeling, wildlife monitoring, or traffic optimization. Explain both a positive and a negative environmental effect of AI in that area. Your task: Write a short response and include one small table with at least 3 observations, examples, or numbers from a reliable source. Length: 250 to 400 words, plus one small table. Suggested sources: Government reports, university research centers, peer-reviewed articles, or reputable technology/environment organizations. What to include A brief description of the environmental issue and how AI is involved. One potential benefit of AI for the environment. One potential environmental cost, risk, or unintended consequence. A small table with at least 3 entries. Example columns: Source, Observation, Why it matters. A concluding sentence stating whether the benefits currently outweigh the costs, and under what conditions. Quick rubric (10 points) Submission: One PDF or DOCX file. Include citations in any standard format used in class.
Based on your ratings, these criteria could be strengthened:
AI Risk: Partial Domain: STEM
Students analyze locally generated lab data
AI Risk: Partial Domain: Professional Programs
Students design a lesson plan tailored to a specific learner group
AI Risk: Partial Domain: Core Cognitive
Students analyze a case study and present a solution
AI Risk: Partial Domain: STEM
Students analyze a case of engineering failure
AI Risk: Low Domain: Core Cognitive
Students participate in a timed, structured debate
AI Risk: Low Domain: Arts & Humanities
Students create a performance or creative response
AI Risk: Low Domain: Professional Programs
Students participate in a simulated patient interview
AI Risk: Partial Domain: Information & Integrity
Students compile an annotated bibliography and reflect
AI Risk: High Domain: Professional Programs
Students pitch a business solution and respond to questions
AI Risk: High Domain: Information & Integrity
Students review several sources and rank by credibility
AI Risk: Partial Domain: Information & Integrity
Students verify a claim with annotated evidence trail
AI Risk: Low Domain: Information & Integrity
Students analyze plagiarism/data misuse case
AI Risk: Low Domain: Core Cognitive
Students participate in a timed, structured debate
AI Risk: High Domain: Arts & Humanities
Students compare two works using primary sources