The Invisible Human Workforce Behind AI

The Invisible Human Workforce Behind AI

Author: Oxford University March 26, 2026 Duration: 31:38
S2E3: This episode pulls back the curtain on the often-invisible human workforce powering AI, from content moderation to data labelling, exploring why global standards in AI supply chains must be enforced to protect worker safety. Veena McCoole talks with researchers Ashly Jiju and Ayca Ergin from the Fairwork Project at the Oxford Internet Institute. With new EU regulations like the AI Act on the horizon, the researchers share Fairwork’s response to readying companies to face this scrutiny: a research-backed audit and certification process designed to help organizations ethically build their AI. Links: Fairwork Project: https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Ashly Jiju: https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/people/profiles/ashly-jiju/ Ayca Ergin: https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/people/profiles/ayca-deniz-ergin/

How do our daily digital lives shape who we are, and how do we, in turn, shape the technologies that surround us? The Human Interface Podcast, from the Oxford Internet Institute, digs into these intricate questions. It moves beyond simple headlines to explore the nuanced relationships between people, society, and digital systems. Each episode features conversations with researchers and thinkers who examine the real-world implications of connectivity, from algorithmic governance and digital ethics to the future of work and social relationships online. This isn't about speculative tech trends, but rather grounded analysis on how the internet is actively changing human experience. You'll hear discussions that are both academically rigorous and deeply relevant, breaking down complex ideas about our networked world into accessible and engaging dialogue. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of the forces at play where humanity meets the machine, offering a clearer understanding of the digital landscape we all navigate. This podcast provides a essential space for anyone curious about the profound social dimensions of technology.
Author: Language: en-uk Episodes: 11

The Human Interface: An OII Podcast
Podcast Episodes
What is the role of humans in the age of AI? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:54
S2E2: This episode explores the evolving role of human oversight of AI systems in the workplace and beyond. With so much of our professional lives being permeated by AI-enabled tools, where do checks and balances come in…
How streaming affects musicians, and what they can do about it [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:33
S2E1: It's never been easier for musicians to release music, but the economics of the music industry and online streaming mean earning a living has become ever more challenging. We explore how streaming platforms impact…
Jobs of the future: Dr Fabian Stephany and El-Iza Mohamedou [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:20
The future of work in an AI-driven world, whether these new technologies help or hurt the labour market, and what employees should be doing to future-proof their skills, with Dr Fabian Stephany (Oxford Internet Institute…