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Artificial Intelligence: AI Literacy

AI Literacy

As college students, you are stepping into a world increasingly influenced by AI. From enhancing your academic performance to shaping your future careers, AI offers a wealth of opportunities. However, with these opportunities come challenges and ethical considerations that you must navigate. Developing AI literacy is essential for making the most of this powerful technology.

AI Literacy

1. Evaluating AI Technology

Being AI literate involves critically assessing how AI systems function, including their benefits and limitations. This includes:

  • Understanding AI Fundamentals: Grasping the basic concepts of AI, such as machine learning, and natural language processing
  • Assessing Reliability and Bias: Recognising that AI systems can have biases based on the data they are trained on, and understanding the implications of these biases in relation to your studies.
  • Identifying Ethical Considerations: Evaluating the ethical implications of AI use, including privacy concerns, accountability, and the potential for misuse.

2. Communicating with AI

Effective interaction with AI systems is crucial for maximising their utility. This involves:

  • Learning How to Use AI Tools: Familiarising yourself with various AI applications, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and data analysis tools.
  • Formulating Clear Queries: Knowing how to ask questions or provide commands/prompts that yield the best possible responses from AI systems.
  • Interpreting AI Outputs: Understanding the results generated by AI tools and being able to critically analyse their relevance and accuracy.

3. Using AI as a Tool

AI can enhance both academic and everyday activities. This aspect of AI literacy includes:

  • Integrating AI in Studies: Utilising AI tools for study and research ethically
  • Applying AI in Daily Life: Leveraging AI technologies for personal tasks, such as managing schedules, making informed decisions, and enhancing creative projects. AI can also be used to create a study schedule.
  • Staying Informed: Keeping up with advancements in AI technology and understanding how they can be applied in various contexts

UNESCO's AI Competency Framework for Students states that  AI "should not be allowed to ... replace critical thinking." The report advocates that students use AI for good and with accountability also mindful of the impact that AI can have on the environment.

AI Literacy

AUA Centre for Teaching and Learning (2023). AI Literacy. https://youtu.be/Z37nr0tqp1U?si=-mFI6I9KUnLsjBpx

UNESCO's AI Competency Framework for Students