Types of transparency

Next, let’s pivot our focus towards the notion of transparency and its correlation with black boxes.

By ex ante or ex post

Ex Ante Transparency

• Systematic Transparency

For instance, consider a traffic prediction tool in a navigation app. Here, systematic transparency might mean revealing that the algorithm assesses data points like live traffic, past traffic trends, ongoing events, and the speed of other users to forecast traffic and suggest optimal routes.

• Output Simulatability

Take, for example, a system determining credit scores. Here, output simulatability would entail that with identical applicant details (like income, past credit behavior), a human evaluator could emulate the algorithm’s decision process and match its credit score outcome.

Ex post Transparency

• User-Specific Transparency

This dimension aims at making an AI system’s functions clear and transparent to a particular user, considering their expertise and the context they’re operating in. It ensures users grasp why a system lands on a particular verdict or suggestion.

For instance, in a tailor-made learning platform, user-specific transparency could imply that the system offers reasons for suggesting certain educational tools or courses based on the learner’s past performance, inclinations, and objectives. This data should be conveyed in a manner that resonates with the student, allowing them to comprehend the system’s choices and their relevance to their learning journey.

By disclosure or explain

Consider a model that differentiates between cats and dogs:

Systematically Transparency

• “How does the model define the appearance of a cat?”

Individually Actionable Transparency

• “What reasons does the model have for classifying THIS specific picture as a cat?”

It’s essential to recognize that the significance of each transparency type and explanation is heavily swayed by the viewpoint of the audience.

By contrast, if we are individuals directly impacted by the outcomes generated by the algorithm, our main interest lies in the counterfactual explanation. This means we’re keen on discerning what elements led to a particular outcome, rather than delving into the intricate specifics of the entire system.