Applying my digital literacies model to ‘AI literacy’
I haven’t yet been able to prioritise thinking deeply about what it would look like to apply my Essential Elements of Digital Literacies to the field of AI.
But hey, why not just ask ChatGPT 4?
AI literacy refers to the understanding of artificial intelligence and the ability to use and interact with AI technologies effectively. It is essential in today’s world, as AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of daily life. To apply Doug Belshaw’s 8 elements of digital literacies to the concept of AI literacy, we can adapt each element to focus on AI-related skills and understanding:
Cultural: Recognizing how AI technologies impact different cultures and societies, as well as understanding the ethical considerations related to AI deployment. This includes being aware of cultural biases in AI systems and acknowledging the implications of AI on the workforce and social structures.
Cognitive: Developing the mental processes involved in using AI tools, such as understanding the basic principles of AI, machine learning, and data analysis. This encompasses skills like interpreting AI-generated insights, recognizing the limitations of AI systems, and understanding the potential consequences of AI decision-making.
Constructive: Gaining the ability to create, modify, and contribute to AI technologies, including working with AI algorithms, designing AI-based solutions, and understanding the software and hardware components of AI systems.
Communicative: Effectively communicating and collaborating with others regarding AI concepts, tools, and applications. This includes being able to explain AI systems to non-experts, discussing ethical and social implications, and sharing AI-related knowledge with others.
Confident: Becoming comfortable and confident in using AI tools and navigating AI-based systems. This involves having the self-assurance to explore, learn, and adapt to new AI technologies and applications.
Creative: Leveraging AI technologies to express oneself creatively and inventively, such as using AI-generated art, music, or writing tools, and applying AI to develop innovative solutions to problems.
Critical: Critically evaluating AI technologies, algorithms, and their implications on society. This involves understanding issues like fairness, accountability, transparency, and privacy in AI systems, as well as assessing the reliability and limitations of AI-generated outputs.
Civic: Engaging with AI technologies to participate in civic activities and social and political life. This includes using AI for social good, advocating for responsible AI policies, and promoting digital equity in AI access and education.
By incorporating these adapted elements into AI literacy, individuals can develop a comprehensive understanding of AI and its impact on society, as well as the skills necessary to thrive in an AI-driven world.
That’s… not bad? I think this would actually be a decent basis to create a framework for an institution that could end up as a curriculum.
