A Fireside Chat on Foundational AI Literacy and Equitable Economic Advancement
In a captivating fireside chat, Tiffany Hsieh, Director of Innovation Programs at JFFLabs, sat down with Christian Pinedo, Head of Engagements & Strategic Partnerships at aiEDU, to discuss the critical importance of Foundational AI Literacy and its impact on equitable economic advancement. The conversation took place as part of the initiative– the Center for Artificial Intelligence & the Future of Work, launched by Jobs For the Future, in partnership with aiEDU. Here are the insightful questions posed by Tiffany and the enlightening responses from Christian:
Introducing Christian Pinedo
Christian commenced by reflecting on his career journey, from teaching high school chemistry and graphic design to his current role at aiEDU. He highlighted his deep involvement with ethical applications of AI, specifically in education, and the importance of AI literacy in empowering schools, teachers, and students. He added, “aiEDU, in short, is focused on empowering schools, teachers, and students with AI literacy. We do what we can to create an ecosystem of support for schools to implement AI literacy, and do it right.”
Why is AI literacy important?
AI literacy, Christian underscored, is a foundational understanding that's necessary for everyone, whether they're K-12 students or people already in the workforce. It's about understanding AI's technical, societal, ethical, and application-based impacts. AI literacy is key to preparing people for a society powered by AI. Christian underscored, “We need to start giving people access to the knowledge that those researchers and techies knew long ago.”
AI literacy and economic advancement
On the subject of AI literacy’s importance to disadvantaged populations, Christian highlighted the existing biases in AI systems that create economic barriers when implemented in workplaces, policy spaces, and schools. He emphasized that the key to success in an AI-driven economy is proficiency in using AI tools, making AI literacy particularly vital to those facing systemic barriers.
Perceptions and understanding of AI
In terms of people’s understanding of AI, Christian pointed out a clear distinction between perception and understanding. He stated, “right now, everyone has clear perceptions of how AI is impacting education, but very cloudy understandings.” To dispel this confusion, aiEDU is working towards giving people a clearer understanding of what AI is and what it means for education.
21st Century skills and AI integration
Christian recognized the importance of 21st-century skills, especially when working with AI tools. Despite the rise of AI, these skills remain vital to addressing the shortcomings and gaps in AI’s performance. However, Christian also pointed out that the current education system makes it hard for teachers to dive deep into these skills due to constraints.
Ensuring foundational AI literacy
The major learning for aiEDU, according to Christian, has been the realization that no single organization can ensure foundational AI literacy on its own. “It really is going to take a symphony of people in education, civil society, research, industry… to make sure that AI literacy is truly equitably implemented,” he mentioned. Jobs for the Future’s continued partnership with aiEDU is a powerful example of multidisciplinary partnerships.
Upskilling workers on foundational AI literacy
Speaking from his experience with school districts, Christian suggested that employers need to address immediate questions about AI literacy before any upskilling, ensuring that the workers feel heard and understood. He also advised caution against rushing to implement AI tech without proper understanding or worker consultation.
Adapting curriculum with evolving technology
As the field of AI rapidly evolves, so does the aiEDU curriculum. However, aiEDU’s focus isn’t on specific tools but on the skills, values, and frameworks students will need in the future. They aim to prepare students to be members of society, now and in the future, with a curriculum focused on tech ethics, critical thinking skills, and lifelong learning.
Making AI literacy accessible
Christian wrapped up the session by reiterating that making AI literacy accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, is a collective responsibility. “We’re at a point where the AI train has left the station. We want to make sure everyone has a chance to get on board,” he said.
The insights provided by Christian Pinedo shed light on the significant role AI literacy plays in our society. It’s clear that advancing AI literacy is a collective task that will require concerted efforts from all sectors. As we continue to navigate the AI-driven landscape, let’s ensure that no one is left behind on this journey.
We at aiEDU are extremely grateful for our partnership with JFF Labs. Together, we can continue our mission to ensure that AI accelerates, rather than delays, equitable access to quality jobs. We look forward to continuing to connect and collaborate on reinforcing our collective commitment to ensuring no one is left behind on this transformative AI journey.
At the Horizons Summit in June, Jobs for the Future announced the Center for Artificial Intelligence & the Future of Work.
