Much has been made about artificial intelligence and the quickening pace in which it is being used in all walks of life, but especially business. AI is shaping the world around us, many people don’t really understand how it works or how to use it effectively. That’s where AI literacy comes in. In today’s blog, we’ll define AI literacy and how it will affect your organization in the near future.
What Is AI Literacy?
AI literacy is simply the ability to understand, use, and think critically about artificial intelligence. It’s not something you need to expect from programmers or tech experts, it’s becoming a necessary skill for everyone. Just like digital literacy helps you navigate the internet safely, AI literacy helps you interact with AI tools in a smart and informed way.
Why Should You Care About AI Literacy?
There are so many moving parts that you need to concern yourself with in your business, you may need a good reason to add another to your plate. Here are some reasons you should care about your AI literacy:
- AI is already front and center – From social media algorithms to virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, AI influences what you see, hear, and even how you think. Understanding it helps you make better decisions.
- Your job may depend on it – AI is changing industries, automating tasks, and creating new job opportunities. If you don’t understand AI, you might get left behind.
- Avoiding misinformation – AI-generated content is becoming more realistic, and deepfakes are on the rise. Being AI-literate helps you recognize what’s real and what’s not.
- Privacy and security – AI tools collect and analyze data, often without people realizing how much they’re giving away. Knowing how AI works can help you protect your personal information.
How Do You Build AI Literacy?
Now that you know why AI literacy is important, here’s how to build some:
- Learn the basics – You don’t need a PhD in computer science, but understanding how AI learns from data and makes decisions is a great start. Websites like Coursera, YouTube, and even AI-powered chatbots can help.
- Try AI tools – Experiment with AI applications like ChatGPT, image generators, or voice assistants. See how they respond and learn their strengths and limitations.
- Think critically – If an AI gives you an answer, don’t just accept it at face value. Ask yourself: Where did this information come from? Is it biased? Could there be a better solution?
- Stay updated – AI is evolving fast. Follow tech news, listen to podcasts, or join discussions to stay informed about the latest advancements and challenges.
As AI continues to shape the business world, being AI-literate will be as essential as knowing how to use a computer or smartphone. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who scrolls through TikTok, understanding AI will help you navigate the future with confidence. So start learning today—your future self will thank you!
If you are looking to integrate AI into your business, we can help. The IT consultants at North Central Technologies are proficient with all manners of technologies designed to improve your business and keep productivity high. Give us a call at 978-798-6805 to learn more.
