Doctoral Dissertation Research in DRMS: Reconceptualizing Algorithmic Decision Making Through a Lens of (In)Visibility in Gig Work Contexts

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $29,283 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Many companies now use algorithms or AI tools to make decisions about work—such as assigning tasks, setting pay, or rating performance. These decisions affect millions of workers nationwide. While these systems are fast and efficient, they also raise serious concerns about distribution. These concerns are especially amplified in gig work, where workers often face unstable pay, limited job security, and little ability to speak up. On platforms like Uber or DoorDash, workers often do not know how the app makes decisions about them. They also lack opportunity to question those decisions and must rely on whatever limited information the app provides to judge whether the system is fair and transparent. Understanding how workers make these judgments and how they affect key attitudinal and behavioral outcomes is important—not just for improving gig work but also for designing ethical AI and shaping public policy. Through two studies, this research project investigates how gig workers understand distribution and transparency in algorithmic decision making, and how those views influence their attitudes and behavior. Study 1 uses interviews and observations to explore workers’ perceptions and experience of algorithmic decisions. The study examines what workers can or cannot see and how that shapes their perceptions. Study 2 builds on these findings to create and test a new survey tool that measures algorithmic decisions. The second study also looks at how perceptions relate to outc

Key facts

NSF award ID
2520016
Awardee
University of Texas at Austin (TX)
SAM.gov UEI
V6AFQPN18437
PI
Craig R Scott
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Estimated total
$29,283
Funds obligated
$29,283
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 06/30/2027