Advancing AI Literacy: A Vision for Inclusive AI Education and Practice

By Chizorom Ebosie Okoronkwo

With the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the promise of transformative innovation comes with significant challenges. Chizorom Ebosie Okoronkwo, a strategic communications expert and doctoral researcher, is at the forefront of addressing these challenges by equipping the next generation of professionals with the tools to thrive in an AI-driven world. Through his research and advocacy, Okoronkwo hopes to bridge the AI literacy gap, particularly in underserved communities, and foster a more inclusive and ethical approach to AI adoption.

The Imperative for AI Literacy
“AI literacy isn’t just about understanding technical algorithms; it’s about empowering individuals to make informed decisions in an AI-driven world,” Okoronkwo explains. From recognizing biases in machine learning models to understanding the ethical implications of AI use, literacy equips people with the skills to engage critically and responsibly with this transformative technology.
AI is no longer confined to the realms of science fiction or high-tech labs; it is embedded in daily life, from voice assistants and recommendation algorithms to predictive analytics in business. Yet, understanding of AI remains limited among those it impacts the most. This gap is especially pronounced in underserved communities, where access to education and training resources is constrained. Without deliberate efforts to bridge this divide, societal inequities risk being exacerbated.

AI and Workforce Readiness
In today’s workforce, AI tools are revolutionizing business operations. Tools like Grammarly, an AI-powered writing assistant, enhance communication by providing real-time grammar and style suggestions. Canva’s AI design features enable professionals to create compelling visuals effortlessly, while Microsoft Power BI and Salesforce Einstein AI offer advanced data analytics and predictive insights. Okoronkwo mentions the capabilities of Microsoft’s recently launched AI-powered assistant Co-Pilot the next human-machine communication technology that will challenge both academia and practise
Co-Pilot is designed to enhance productivity and creativity across various Microsoft 365 applications, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. It also leverages OpenAI’s advanced language models and helps users’ draft documents, analyze data, create presentations, summarize meeting notes, and streamline workflows with intelligent automation. Essentially serving as a collaborative partner, reducing repetitive tasks and enabling users to focus on higher-level, strategic work.

Despite these crucial functions, a disconnect still exists between the potential of these tools and employees’ readiness to use them effectively.

Okoronkwo’s research examines how perceptions of AI use influence organizational performance and employee self-efficacy. He advocates for comprehensive training programs that address technical proficiency, emphasize strategic applications, and promote the ethical use of AI. “Organizations must prioritize workforce training and readiness of AI tools to ensure sustainability” he adds.

Advocacy for Inclusive AI Education
Okoronkwo’s mission extends beyond technical training to address systemic inequities in AI education. His research underscores the importance of culturally relevant, community-based approaches to AI literacy. “To truly democratize AI, educational initiatives must meet people where they are,” he asserts. By partnering with local organizations, schools, and businesses, these initiatives can demystify complex concepts through relatable examples and interactive workshops.
Programs like AI4All, which introduces high school students to AI as a career path, and NetHope, which trains non-profits on responsible AI use, serve as models for how AI literacy can be scaled effectively. Okoronkwo emphasizes the need to train users in areas like prompt design and user interface interaction, enabling them to engage with AI tools confidently and effectively.

The Road Ahead
AI is as much a social and cultural phenomenon as it is a technological one. Addressing its challenges requires leadership that is both visionary and grounded. Okoronkwo is committed to driving conversations and actions that prioritize AI skills development, inclusivity, and ethical use.
“Incorporating AI literacy into education and training programs isn’t just an investment in individual careers; it’s an investment in the collective future of industries and communities,” Okoronkwo says. By positioning AI literacy as a cornerstone of modern education and workforce development, he is paving the way for a future where no one is left behind in this transformative era.

• Okoronkwo (MS, New York University, 2016) is a graduate teaching associate at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and a PhD student in Strategic communication