The Algorithm Will See You Now

Inspiration

We were inspired by the growing presence of AI in classrooms—not just as a tool, but as a decision-maker, content curator, and even evaluator. As students and educators begin to rely more heavily on AI, we asked: what happens when machines start shaping not just how we learn, but what we learn? This essay emerged from a desire to explore that question through a critical, creative lens.

What it does

The Algorithm Will See You Now" is a reflective essay that imagines a near-future educational experience driven entirely by AI. It blends speculative storytelling with real-world concerns about bias, privacy, transparency, ethics, and sustainability in AI systems. The piece challenges readers to consider what’s gained—and what’s lost—when we allow algorithms to take the lead in education.

How we built it

We approached the essay through a hybrid lens of fiction and nonfiction. Research was grounded in real-world studies (like MIT Media Lab’s findings on algorithmic bias), current privacy regulations (FERPA, GDPR), and ethical frameworks in AI. The fictional narrative provided an emotional anchor, while the analysis grounded the piece in real challenges and opportunities. We used iterative drafting to balance creativity with insight.

Challenges we ran into

One of the hardest parts was keeping the tone accessible while diving deep into complex topics like data ethics, algorithmic transparency, and environmental impact. Striking the right balance between speculative storytelling and grounded critique took time. We also had to be selective due to the 1000-word limit—many fascinating angles had to be trimmed or saved for future exploration.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We’re proud of how the essay blends emotion with analysis, technology with humanity. It raises difficult questions without offering oversimplified answers and aims to create a memorable experience that sticks with the reader. We're also proud of how we addressed not just what AI can do in education—but what it should do.

What we learned

We learned how deeply intertwined AI is becoming with our educational systems—and how important it is to ask ethical questions early, not after deployment. We gained a better understanding of current policies and limitations, and how storytelling can make these complex topics more relatable and thought-provoking.

What's next for The Algorithm Will See You Now

We’d love to expand the essay into a series—possibly including visual essays, interviews with educators, or student perspectives from diverse communities. There's also potential to adapt the fictional elements into a short animated film or podcast episode to further spark public conversation around responsible AI in education.

Built With

• ai
• creative
• markdown
• storytelling
• writing