Introduction

Welcome! This workshop introduces you to this course’s focus: developing meaningful collaboration with AI rather than just learning about AI technology.

We explain that this course explores how to build a lasting framework for working with AI systems that goes beyond simple and temporary tips and tricks. We explain what we mean by AI Fluency: it is the ability to collaborate with AI in ways that are effective, efficient, ethical, and safe. We also outline the course structure, which covers each of the AI Fluency core competencies (the 4Ds) as well as key technical and practical concepts.

By the end of the course, you'll have a framework for thoughtful AI interaction, confidence in choosing when and how to work with AI effectively, practical collaboration skills, and the ability to evaluate and disseminate AI-assisted work responsibly.

Key takeaways

• This course focuses on human-AI collaboration, not just understanding AI as a technology

• AI Fluency means engaging with AI systems effectively, efficiently, ethically, and safely

• The AI Fluency Framework centers on the "4D" competencies of Delegation, Description, Discernment and Diligence

  • Delegation - When should humans do the work and when should AI?

  • Description - How do we clearly communicate with AI systems?

  • Discernment - How do we evaluate what AI gives us?

  • Diligence - How do we ensure our interactions with AI is responsible, transparent and accountable?

• The goal is to develop lasting skills that remain relevant as AI technology evolves

• Effective AI collaboration requires both practical skills and a fundamental shift in how we think about working with AI

AI Fluency

This course explores what it really means to be "fluent" with AI and why this matters. We discuss how AI Fluency involves developing practical skills, knowledge, insights, and values that help you interact with AI systems in ways that are effective, efficient, ethical, and safe. We also introduce three ways people engage with AI:

• Automation: The AI completes specific tasks based on your instructions.

• Augmentation: You and AI collaborate as creative thinking and task execution partners.

• Agency: You configure AI to work independently on your behalf, establishing its knowledge and behavior patterns rather than just giving it specific tasks.