AI Literacy Initiative

NEW YORK [Sept. 9, 2024] — The National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) — the leading voice, convener and resource for media literacy education — is launching a new AI Literacy Initiative that unites tech experts, researchers and practitioners to explore and promote the connections between AI literacy and media literacy skills.
Artificial intelligence has become increasingly commonplace across government, corporate industries, educational institutions, and everyday lives. However, as AI and other emerging technologies rapidly evolve as major tools for creating and disseminating information, the development of media literacy skills must keep pace. 

NAMLE recognizes that the societal implications of these technologies — from shaping public opinion to influencing critical decision-making — are profound and still unfolding. Without the ability to fully engage in a healthy and effective manner with AI tools, the public remains at a disadvantage, vulnerable to the consequences of misinformation and unethical usage and ill-prepared for civic participation.

To appropriately respond to this emerging technology, it is essential to understand the current landscape of AI and assess media literacy education’s role in shaping its responsible usage. NAMLE’s AI Literacy Initiative marks the first step in evaluating the benefits and concerns of AI’s impact on education, industry and individuals.  

With support from Microsoft, TikTok and Trend Micro, NAMLE will organize a virtual AI Literacy Roundtable on Sept. 12 and an AI Literacy Summit on Oct. 25 in New York City as part of the 10th Anniversary of U.S. Media Literacy Week. 

“The advancement of AI tools reinforces the urgent need for media literacy skills to help people navigate the complex information landscape,” said Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, executive director of NAMLE. “We are very grateful for the support of our sponsors as we take on the important connections between AI literacy and media literacy. This initiative will allow NAMLE to advance media literacy education while engaging a spectrum of voices in technology, media and education.”

“Microsoft is dedicated to enhancing public education and awareness to maximize the benefits of AI technology while mitigating risks,” said Ginny Badanes, general manager of Microsoft’s Democracy Forward program. “By sharing resources and expertise with educators and learners, we aim to build broader information and AI literacy skills, fostering a community of informed and responsible AI users.”

“As members of the Content Authenticity Initiative and inaugural supporters of the Partnership on AI’s responsible AI framework, TikTok is committed to advancing AI literacy so people can explore this technology safely,” said Valiant Richey, global head of outreach & partnerships at TikTok. “We’re proud to sponsor NAMLE’s effort to bring AI literacy to more audiences as we continue investing in leading AI labeling tools, provenance technologies and educational initiatives that help raise awareness around AI transparency.”

“As one of the world’s largest and longest-standing cybersecurity companies, we have always been keenly aware of the promises, limitations and risks of new technologies. AI is no different,” said Lynette Owens, vice president of global consumer education and marketing at Trend Micro. “We are proud to support NAMLE, the organization best suited to lead the AI Literacy Initiative, so that people of all ages can obtain the critical thinking skills to use and interact with AI in safe and responsible ways.” 

AI continues to evolve and become a focal point for topics surrounding education, disinformation, copyright and privacy. NAMLE and its partner organizations are working behind the scenes to create a framework that ensures all people have equitable access to the media literacy skills necessary to navigate this emerging media in a healthy and effective manner.