Literacy in artificial intelligence (AI) is not limited to technical skills; it also involves the critical analysis of risks, limitations, and ethical and social implications of this technology. This form of literacy prepares individuals and organizations to interact intelligently and responsibly with a technology that is already transforming multiple industries. According to a Microsoft report, storytelling with data, known as "data storytelling," is a crucial skill within teams, and promoting AI literacy among leaders and employees positions organizations to make strategic, data-driven decisions and foster a culture of innovation.
Companies that invest in AI literacy can enhance their decision-making, increase operational efficiency, innovate in their business models, and ensure ethical use of technology. Those organizations that do not invest in this form of literacy run the risk of lagging behind in a data- and AI-driven world. Skills related to AI literacy will be fundamental in automation processes, and 82% of business leaders believe their collaborators will need to acquire new competencies to adapt to the growth of AI.
AI literacy encompasses understanding fundamental concepts such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, as well as guiding AI systems in an ethical and responsible manner. Training employees in the use of AI-based tools enables them to experiment with new approaches, optimize processes, and generate disruptive ideas. The importance of digital and data literacy has become central in the era of the fourth industrial revolution, where making informed decisions through data is essential.
According to the "The state of data & AI Literacy 2024" report by Data Camp, the use of tools like Open AI at work has doubled in the last twelve months, and the adoption of AI is perceived as a driver of automation in businesses. Literacy in artificial intelligence involves reading, writing, analyzing, communicating, and reasoning with data, making it a crucial skill for life in the 21st century. Globally, countries such as Finland, Singapore, and South Korea lead educational programs that integrate the teaching of data management and advanced technologies from an early age.
On the other hand, emerging countries face challenges in accessing technological infrastructure, educational disparities, and the lack of public policies to promote these competencies. The evolution of the economic landscape towards AI-driven industries generates the need to acquire new skills to cope with this constant change. In summary, literacy in AI and data is essential for successfully navigating an increasingly technological and competitive environment.
