With AI firmly established as a part of our everyday lives, it has become a common necessity for everyone to understand the workings of this technology. A new form of literacy has emerged as a necessity for all mankind: AI literacy.
This is how we at Code School Finland define AI literacy: the knowledge, skills and right attitude to understand, use, and interact with AI responsibly and effectively. An AI literate person is able to make informed decisions about AI technologies and deal with the moral questions they raise.
An AI generated picture with prompt: young student in a classroom wondering at imaginary animals learning digital skills
A wide range of knowledge and skills
AI literacy encompasses a wide range of knowledge and skills. Firstly, it is about our attitude towards AI. Having the right mindset allows approaching AI technologies with curiosity, critical thinking, and ethical consideration. While a certain degree of technical knowledge is necessary, it is an open mind, the ability to raise legitimate questions, and an understanding of the broader implications of AI that empower individuals to engage with this technology responsibly.
AI literacy requires an understanding of basic AI concepts such as machine learning, neural networks, algorithms, and data. An AI literate person understands the way in which AI systems learn from data, make predictions, and automate tasks. Grasping the technical aspects of AI can put an end to the highly erroneous perception of AI as an omniscient, infallible force.
AI literacy also requires the ability to recognise and critically evaluate AI applications which range from virtual assistants and recommendation systems to autonomous vehicles and healthcare diagnostics. An AI-literate person is able to consider the matters of accuracy, privacy, and ethical implications; and is aware of relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines governing the use of AI.
AI literacy requires using AI tools for tasks such as natural language processing, image recognition, and automation. Learning about AI happens best through experimenting, rather than receiving ready-made knowledge from the teacher. Gaining knowledge through firsthand experience makes it more meaningful.
How to teach AI literacy
Instruction in AI literacy should be practical in nature. It is about giving learners hands-on experience and real-world examples. This approach could include activities such as a programming project creating a simple AI model, an exploration of the use of AI in the industry, and discussions around the ethical implication of AI in real-world situations.
To effectively teach AI literacy, educators themselves need to be AI literate. Educators must understand the basics of AI and machine learning. They must be able to explain these concepts as well as the ethical and societal implications of AI in an accessible way.
Conclusion
AI literacy is a critical skill in the increasingly AI-driven society and economy. It enables us to engage thoughtfully with AI technologies, and make informed decisions about their use.
It’s not a static concept; AI literacy will continue to evolve with the advancement of AI technologies. Thus, continuous learning and adaptability will be key to staying AI literate. So, let’s keep learning, keep exploring, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with AI.
How we can help
Teacher professional development courses by Code School Finland will enable you to teach AI literacy to your students. Teachers around the globe are already teaching AI to their students using Code School Finland teaching materials.
Our turn-key service Teachease provides teacher training, support and teaching materials tailored for your school so that you can start teaching AI. Read more here.
Request a free Teachease plan for launching AI instruction at your school:
1) Answer a few questions about your school and your vision for digital skills education
2) We will align your vision with relevant Teachease modules and put together a plan.
3) We will send you a plan with an explanation of practicalities within 5 working days.