AI literacy is a term that we’ll be hearing increasingly more often as the technology continues its relentless march into the workplace. It’s great that some employees are experimenting, however they should not be the ones to bear the burden of learning best practices, or defining use cases. When companies invest in AI literacy education, they’re investing in future of their company, and the future of their employees.
In a recent survey conducted by SAP, over 4,000 managers and employees worldwide shared their thoughts on how artificial intelligence (AI) is influencing workplace dynamics and HR practices. The study, highlighted by Autumn Krauss from SAP SuccessFactors, reveals that attitudes toward AI are largely shaped by individuals’ AI literacy. This term refers to one’s ability to detect, understand, and evaluate AI technology.
The survey uncovered a significant divide in perceptions based on AI literacy. Those with high AI literacy were notably more optimistic, with nearly 70% expecting positive outcomes from AI use at work. In contrast, only 29% of those with low AI literacy shared this optimism. Furthermore, individuals with low AI literacy were over six times more likely to feel apprehensive and eight times more likely to feel distressed about AI in the workplace.
Understanding AI’s Role
AI is becoming an integral part of many workplaces, offering tools that can streamline tasks and improve efficiency. Employees interact with AI through various applications, from performance reviews to hiring processes. The survey suggests that while many are open to AI in hiring, opinions are mixed when it comes to AI’s role in performance evaluations and compensation.
Benefits of AI
- Increased efficiency in tasks and processes
- Potential for unbiased decision-making in hiring practices
- Enhanced performance reviews for employees who effectively use AI
Concerns with AI
- Apprehension and distress among employees with low AI literacy
- Potential bias in performance reviews and compensation based on AI usage
- Unequal opportunities for promotion depending on AI literacy
Business Use Cases
- Create a platform that offers AI literacy training for employees across various industries.
- Develop an AI-driven tool that provides unbiased performance reviews by analyzing work patterns.
- Launch a recruitment service that uses AI to enhance fairness and efficiency in hiring processes.
As AI continues to weave itself into the fabric of the workplace, it’s crucial for organizations to bridge the AI literacy gap. While AI offers numerous benefits, such as increased efficiency and fairness in hiring, it also presents challenges that need addressing, particularly around employee perceptions and biases. By investing in AI literacy and fostering a culture of learning, businesses can ensure that all employees are equipped to thrive in an AI-enhanced environment. This balance of embracing innovation while addressing its challenges will be key to navigating the future of work.
Image Credit: DALL-E
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