Embracing GenAI literacy in education: A roadmap for empowerment

Abstract

The paper discusses the emergence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) as a transformative force in education and the necessity of GenAI literacy for both educators and students. GenAI literacy involves understanding generative AI systems, their societal impacts, and ethical implications. It encompasses skills ranging from basic knowledge of how these systems work to critical evaluation and innovative application.

For teachers, fostering GenAI literacy requires integrating GenAI concepts into existing curricula without overhauling them, organizing professional development workshops with hands-on training, and forming collaborative learning communities to share best practices. For students, the focus should be on developing critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills, engaging in active-based learning using GenAI tools, and promoting interdisciplinary approaches that span STEM, humanities, and social sciences.

The paper argues that GenAI literacy is not limited to mastering tools but also involves cultivating a critical perspective on technology’s role in society. By emphasizing complex thinking competencies, it aims to prepare future generations for AI-augmented environments. This literacy is positioned as a cornerstone for responsibly harnessing AI’s potential and addressing challenges like bias, privacy, and intellectual property.

Ultimately, the paper presents a roadmap for empowering individuals and institutions to navigate and shape the evolving AI landscape responsibly and innovatively. It underscores the importance of equipping society with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage meaningfully with one of the most influential technologies of the 21st century.