Bias, Diversity & Group Dynamics

What is cognitive bias?

A systematic error in reasoning or judgement that distorts how we perceive and make decisions

What is the difference between explicit and implicit bias

Explicit: Conscious and openly expressed attitudes. Implicit: Unconscious preferences influencing behaviour without awareness

What are stereotypes?

Generalised beliefs about a group that may be inaccuracte or unfair

How can cognitive bias affect engineers

It can lead to unfair judgements, poor collaboration, and unethical or unsafe decisions

Name two sources of bias in modern technology

1. Training data in AI models

2. Human assumptions embedded in algorithms or system designs

What does diversity mean in engineering collaboration

Purposefully exploiting differences in how people think and act to improve ideas, innovation, and decisions

Why is diversity valuable for teams

Diverse perspectives lead to better problem solving, creativity and innovation - if managed well

What is the Human Rights Act 1993 relevant to diversity?

It protects against discrimination on characteristics such as sex, race, religion, disability, age, family status sexual orientation

Give one finding about gender and ethics

Men are generally more risk-taking and more likely to justify piracy or tax evasion; women tend to oppose unethical behaviour more strongly (on average)

What is Hofstede’s cultural dimension theory

A framework descriving how culture influences values, including power distance, individualism-collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity-feminity, long-term orientation, and indulgence

What Maori cultural values are used by Ngai Tahu that connects to ethics

• Whanaungatanga (relationships)

• Manaakitanga (care for others)

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)

• Rangatiratanga (leadership and integrity)

• Tohungatanga (expertise)

• Tikanga (appropriate action)

What are group dynamics

The interactions, behaviours, and psychological processes that influence how people behave and perform in groups

What was demonstrated by the Asch conformity experiments

People often conform to group pressure even when the group is clearly wrong

What is groupthink?

When the desire for harmony or conformity in a group leads to poor decisions and suppression of dissent

What are common symptoms of groupthink?

Inaction bias, status-quo bias, choice deferral, omission bias, and suppression of opposing opinions

How can engineers prevent groupthink?

• Encourage dissenting views

• Use anonymous feedback tools

• Apply ethical decision frameworks

• Promote open communication

How does leadership influence group ethics?

Leaders set norms, facilitate inclusion, allow dissent, and create trust so members can share differing opinions

What factors improve group performance?

Positive relationships, structured processes, clear roles, open communication, and collaboration norms

How does Codes of Conduct relate to bias and diveristy?

They define ethical standards for professional behaviour, ensuring fairness, inclusion, and responsibility

Why are group ethics important in engineering?

Engineers work in teams, and group biases can influence safety, fairness, and public trust in engineering outcomes