Technology Governance Policy
Museum of Sierra Ski History – Artificial Intelligence Governance Policy
The Museum of Sierra Ski History is committed to the accurate preservation and interpretation of Sierra Nevada ski and snowsports history. This policy governs the responsible use of artificial intelligence in alignment with the museum’s mission, applicable laws, and best practices for cultural institutions.
Policy Statement
The Museum may use artificial intelligence tools as an assistive technology for content creation, interpretation, education, and accessibility. All AI use shall support — and never compromise — historical accuracy, authenticity, and public trust. The Museum does not present AI-generated content as original historical evidence or primary source material.
Core Principles
- Historical content is based on authoritative published sources, primary documents, photographs, oral histories, and other verified materials.
- AI serves as a supplementary tool for drafting, visualization, translation, and interactive experiences.
- All interpretive content, including AI-assisted materials, undergoes human review and approval by qualified curators or historians.
- The Museum complies with all applicable federal and state laws, including consumer protection regulations enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding truthful and non-deceptive representations.
- The Museum recognizes First Amendment protections under the U.S. Constitution for educational expression and interpretive content while upholding rigorous standards of factual integrity in its role as a historical institution.
Legal and Professional References
- First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Protects the Museum’s right to create and disseminate educational and interpretive materials. U.S. Constitution
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act (15 U.S.C. § 45): Prohibits deceptive practices in representations to the public. FTC Act
- Emerging AI-Related Guidance: While no court rulings directly address responsible AI use in museums that maintain strict historical accuracy, the Museum follows best practices consistent with FTC enforcement on transparency and truthfulness in content.
- American Alliance of Museums (AAM): Emphasizes transparency and ethical use of technology in museum practice. AAM Website
- International Council of Museums (ICOM) Code of Ethics: Stresses the duty to maintain authenticity and public trust in cultural heritage institutions. ICOM Code of Ethics
This policy will be reviewed periodically as technology, legal standards, and professional guidelines evolve. The Museum remains dedicated to transparency, accuracy, and leadership in the responsible use of emerging technologies to advance public understanding of Sierra ski and snowsports history.
Technology Governance Policy
This Artificial Intelligence Governance Policy forms the core of the Museum’s broader Technology Governance Policy and will be updated as needed to address future technological developments.