The ELSA Scan is an assessment developed by researchers at Wageningen University & Research. This scan helps identify both opportunities and potential risks in AI or data-driven applications, such as ingrained biases in algorithms or a lack of transparency toward end users.
Beyond making ethical blind spots visible, the ELSA Scan may identify on legal issues, related to for example privacy legislation (GDPR) or the AI Act. Additionally, the scan raises awareness of social implications, such as the impact of AI on human or animal welfare. In this way, the expertise and services of the ELSA Lab contribute to responsible AI development as early as possible, aligned with sustainability goals and societal values.
An ELSA Scan consists of three components: a survey, an interview conducted by an ELSA researcher, and feedback on the results. After processing the data, the client receives a summary report outlining the identified ELSA aspects, potential next steps, and a consultation with a researcher to discuss the findings and their implications.
The most common identified ELSA aspects from the ELSA Scans of nine use cases are detailed in this infosheet.
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Interested in which ELSA issues or opportunities are applicable to your AI or data-driven application? Contact our researchers at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
