U.S. Department of Labor releases new AI literacy framework

AI continues to reshape nearly every facet of how we work, learn, and interact. Both adults and youth are increasingly using AI, with 62% of U.S. adults reporting that they interact with AI at least several times per weekopens in new window and 46% of teens reporting that they use chatbots at least several times per weekopens in new window. Given the rapid adoption of AI, there is a growing call for AI literacy programs to equip the public with the skills they need to use AI both effectively and safely.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released an AI literacy frameworkopens in new window to guide workforce and educational preparation efforts. The framework focuses on five foundational content areas of AI knowledge:

1. Understand AI principles: Know core AI concepts, capabilities, and limitations.
2. Explore AI uses: Examine AI tools and their use, and how AI can complement human expertise.
3. Direct AI effectively: Understand how to prompt AI and provide appropriate context to produce effective outputs.
4. Evaluate AI outputs: Assess AI outputs for accuracy and relevance; learn how to further refine those outputs.
5. Use AI responsibly: Learn how to employ AI ethically, protect critical information, and ensure accountability for outcomes.

The DOL has also developed 7 key principles for the effective delivery of AI learning.

1. Enable experiential learning: Create hands-on learning experiences in real-world situations.
2. Embed learning in context: Integrate learning into existing processes or characteristics of a given industry.
3. Build complementary human skills: Use AI to augment human judgment, creativity, communication, and problem-solving.
4. Address prerequisites to AI literacy: Address barriers such as foundational digital literacy and broadband access.
5. Create pathways for continued learning: Create routes to develop enhanced and specialized AI skills.  
6. Prepare enabling roles: Equip managers, educators, and others to support people’s AI learning.
7. Design for agility: Develop processes to quickly update content and delivery methods as AI evolves.

The DOL indicates that this framework represents an initial starting point for AI literacy and will likely evolve over time. The department welcomes input on how the framework could be expanded to include industry-specific guidance and greater integration into both workplace and educational training programs. Find the  complete literacy framework here.opens in new window