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Community-powered AI: Enhancing regional development through dataset diversity and ethical governance

Author

Listed:
  • Lin, Zeyu
  • Dou, Hongtao
  • Lin, Shanlang

Abstract

This study examines the transformative impact of AI on promoting equitable regional development in China, with a particular focus on dataset diversity, community-driven data collection, and ethical governance frameworks. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional methodology, primary survey data from AI developers, policymakers, and regional planners across 31 provinces were integrated with secondary economic and technological indicators. The results reveal that higher AI dataset diversity is strongly associated with reduced income inequality, enhanced GDP growth, and improved access to education and healthcare services. Community-driven data initiatives significantly enhance dataset representativeness, improving the accuracy, fairness, and policy relevance of AI models. Furthermore, adopting ethical AI governance frameworks positively influences public trust, AI adoption rates, perceived fairness, and stakeholder engagement. Structural Equation Modeling validates the interrelationships among dataset diversity, community involvement, ethical governance, and regional development outcomes. This study highlights actionable strategies for the responsible integration of AI, offering a holistic socio-technical model to drive equitable and sustainable regional development in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Lin, Zeyu & Dou, Hongtao & Lin, Shanlang, 2025. "Community-powered AI: Enhancing regional development through dataset diversity and ethical governance," Technovation, Elsevier, vol. 147(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:techno:v:147:y:2025:i:c:s0166497225001476
    DOI: 10.1016/j.technovation.2025.103315
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