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What Is AI?

What Is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

To develop AI literacy, it’s important to first build a foundational understanding of what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is, how it works, and where it shows up in everyday life. This foundation helps learners critically engage with AI tools and make informed decisions about their use.

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"Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to a broad branch of computer science focused on creating systems capable of simulating the human capacity for learning and dynamic, real-time problem-solving based on firsthand observations, inferences, and interactions with their surroundings. Most functional AI in use as of the early 2020s is built on massive, human-generated data sets and algorithms, complex sets of instructions and calculations computer systems use to carry out procedures or complete tasks" (Artificial Intelligence, 2024). 

Here are some common ways we encounter AI in our everyday lives:

  • Virtual assistants (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa)

  • Personalized content recommendations on streaming platforms (e.g., Netflix, YouTube, Spotify)

  • Social media algorithms that curate news feeds, suggest connections, and moderate content

  • Predictive text, autocorrect, and grammar suggestions on smartphones and writing platforms (e.g., Gmail, Word, Grammarly)

  • Navigation and ride-sharing apps that provide real-time traffic data and route optimization (e.g., Google Maps, Waze, Uber)

  • Language translation tools (e.g., Google Translate, DeepL)

  • Email spam filters and smart categorization (e.g., Promotions, Updates in Gmail)

  • Facial recognition for unlocking devices, organizing photos, or enhancing security

  • Voice-to-text and speech recognition services (e.g., dictation in phones, meeting transcription tools)

  • Adaptive learning and tutoring platforms that personalize educational content (e.g., Khan Academy, Duolingo, ALEKS)

  • E-commerce recommendations based on browsing and purchase history (e.g., Amazon, Target)

  • Fraud detection systems used by banks and credit card companies

  • Smart home devices that learn user routines (e.g., smart thermostats, lights, and appliances)

What Is AI Literacy?

What Is AI Literacy?

"AI literacy is defined by as a set of competencies that enables individuals to critically evaluate AI technologies; communicate and collaborate effectively with AI; and use AI as a tool online, at home, and in the workplace" (Long & Magerko, 2020, p. 2).

AI Literacy refers to the understanding and ability to critically engage with artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. It involves not only knowing how AI works and the basic principles behind it but also recognizing its applications, limitations, and ethical implications. AI literacy equips students with the skills to interact responsibly with AI tools, assess their outputs, and understand the potential biases and impacts these technologies can have on society. In an increasingly AI-driven world, AI literacy is essential for making informed decisions, whether in personal, professional, or academic contexts. 

In summation, AI literacy is the ability to:

  • critically evaluate AI technologies;
  • communicate and collaborate effectively with AI;
  • use AI as a tool, online, at home, and in the workplace.

Generative AI

Generative Artificial Intelligence

Generative artificial intelligence is a category of web-based tools that use algorithms, data, and statistical models to draw reasonable inferences to create content of its own (e,g., text, images, etc.).

They are not search engines but rather trained chatbots. Using a prompt, a chatbot strives to fill in the next missing content piece, "what one might expect" (Wolfram). 

These tools use large language models to provide bots with the data they need to reply to a prompt you have given it appropriately. For example, when ChatGPT writes a response to a prompt, it provides text based on what words came before and what is the most likely next word. Because AI uses natural language and computes so quickly, it can often seem like the chatbot is, in fact, intelligent. 

a magnifying glass and a warning sign.The field of AI is changing at a rapid pace. We know that these generative tools help users synthesize information and create content (code, art, music, etc.). However, these tools can also "hallucinate", or make up facts or sources and create biased content. This will be discussed further in Ethical Considerations.

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