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Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly moved from the realm of science fiction into our everyday lives. From suggesting your next favorite book on Amazon to improving productivity with tools like ChatGPT, AI is no longer a distant promise—it's a transformative force shaping how we live, work, and learn. For faculty and staff at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ, developing AI literacy isn't just about staying relevant; it's about leveraging these tools to enrich personal lives, enhance professional skills, and better serve students and colleagues.

Why AI Literacy Matters

AI is poised to become a defining feature of the 21st-century workforce. Nearly half of workplace activities could be automated with current technologies, creating an urgent need for professionals to adapt. But AI isn't just about automation; it's about augmentation—tools that enhance decision-making, improve efficiency, and unlock creativity.

Imagine a professor analyzing course data to identify where students struggle and using AI tools to create adaptive resources tailored to those needs. Or picture a staff member in financial services using AI to quickly identify trends and forecast budgets. These tools help professionals focus on strategic, high-impact tasks by taking care of repetitive or time-intensive ones.

Beyond professional benefits, AI literacy empowers individuals to navigate an increasingly AI-infused world. Understanding how algorithms influence search results or how data shapes tools ensures we remain informed consumers and critical thinkers.

At its core, AI literacy involves understanding what AI is, how it works, and how to use it effectively and ethically. It doesn't mean becoming an AI engineer; it means developing a practical awareness of its capabilities and limitations and applying it meaningfully in your context. This practical approach ensures that AI literacy is within reach for everyone, regardless of their technical background.

For instance, faculty members might start by using AI to summarize academic articles or generate discussion prompts. Staff members could explore AI-powered tools to draft communications or streamline scheduling. The key is to start small, with tools that feel relevant and accessible, and then expand as confidence grows.

Across higher education, professionals are already finding innovative ways to integrate AI into their work. Small changes can lead to significant transformations. Using AI for routine tasks can free up hours each week to focus on more strategic work, making our work more efficient and meaningful.

Getting Started with AI Literacy

Developing AI literacy begins with curiosity. Begin by exploring AI tools that fit into your daily personal routines. At Weber State, resources are available to support faculty and staff in their journey toward AI literacy. Workshops, training sessions, and online materials provide practical guidance on integrating AI tools into teaching, research, and administrative work. These resources are designed to help you understand not just how to use AI but also how to do so ethically and effectively.

AI literacy also involves grappling with the ethical questions these technologies raise. How do algorithms impact data privacy? How can AI applications ensure inclusivity and avoid bias? These are critical issues, especially in a university setting. Knowing these challenges as you embark on your AI literacy journey is important.

For example, while an AI tool might help generate content more quickly, it's vital to review that content critically to ensure it aligns with Weber State values and maintains academic rigor. Developing a habit of questioning and evaluating AI outputs is fundamental to becoming AI literate.

Looking Ahead: The Future of AI Literacy

The pace of AI innovation shows no signs of slowing. By investing in AI literacy today, faculty and staff can prepare for a future where these tools are as ubiquitous as smartphones. Imagine the possibilities:

• Personalized student support systems.
• Administrative processes that practically run themselves.
• Enhanced opportunities for creativity and innovation.

AI literacy isn't about replacing humans; it's about enhancing our uniquely human capabilities—creativity, empathy, and critical thinking—with the power of technology. By exploring, experimenting, and engaging with AI now, we can position ourselves to lead in a rapidly changing world.

AI literacy will no longer be optional but a differentiating skill. For Weber State faculty and staff, it represents an opportunity to elevate our work, inspire our students, and make a lasting impact. By exploring and embracing AI, we can navigate the complexities of this technological revolution and emerge as empowered leaders in our fields.

The future is here, powered by those willing to learn, adapt, and lead. Are you ready?