Modeling Moral Reasoning

During the summer of 2023, I participated in a Mentored Advanced Project (MAP) at Grinnell with Professor of computer science Fernanda Eliott.

My team worked to create 3D models of image descriptions given by another student researcher. The process mirrored AI generated art where a prompt is given and the machine spits out its best estimation. We were the machines in this case. The research investigated how humans go about this process and what sorts of decisions impact the final product.

The project introduced me to Blender, a 3D modeling software, and taught me just how complicated it is. Drawing on a 2D paper is already stretching the bounds of my abilities, so trying to create 3D objects within a flat computer screen was a challenge. Just like any digital tool, learning Blender strengthened my problem solving skills and made me feel more confident in troubleshooting issues.

Anika Jane Beamer, Grinnell’s science writer at the time of my project, wrote a short article on my research too! Check it out here!