Critical Generative AI literacy

The rapid developments in generative AI have implications for digital equity.

Generative AI technologies have the potential to significantly amplify existing inequalities in society and contribute to the digital divide. This can arise from the creation or exacerbation of disparities in access to resources, tools, skills and opportunities.

• OpenAI, the organisation behind ChatGPT, was initially established as a non-profit entity in 2015. It openly released its projects and associated code.
• However, in just a few years, OpenAI transitioned into a for-profit corporation and began commercially licensing its technologies, which subsequently became closed source.
• ChatGPT is presently available for free.
• However, OpenAI also offers a subscription service called ChatGPT Plus. This premium option guarantees faster response times and consistent availability, even during periods of high demand.

This trend of commercialization and subscription-based models has been similar in other generative AI tools. Those who can afford access to the premium AI tools and services will have an advantage over those who can’t.

There are also likely to be inequalities in the skills, knowledge and digital literacy needed to use generative AI tools effectively. Those without access to these skills are likely to be socially and economically disadvantaged. Addressing this skills gap is likely to be a major challenge for society.

Libraries are well placed to facilitate the development of digital literacy and critical thinking skills.

Interaction Institute for Social Change | Artist: Angus Maguire