Lesson 2B: The 4D Framework | AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations Course

AI Fluency: The Four Ds

Key Concepts: AI Fluency, Delegation, Description, Discernment, Diligence, AI Collaboration, Automation, Augmentation, Agency, Ethical AI, Safe AI.

1. Introduction to AI Fluency and Core Competencies

• AI Fluency Definition: Developing practical skills, knowledge, insights, and values for effective, efficient, ethical, and safe AI usage.
• Four Core Competencies (The Four Ds): Delegation, Description, Discernment, and Diligence. These are essential for navigating AI collaboration regardless of the interaction method (automation, augmentation, or agency).

2. Delegation: Strategic Task Allocation

• Focus: Big picture thinking, defining goals, identifying tasks, and strategically allocating work between human and AI.
• Process:
  1. Understand the overall goal and problem.
  2. Recognize AI's capabilities and limitations.
  3. Divide work thoughtfully between human and AI.
• Example: A research project where AI reviews documents and data, while the human handles critical analysis and conclusions.
• Key Point: Delegation is not just offloading tasks; it's about strategically integrating AI into the workflow.

3. Description: Clear Communication with AI

• Focus: Articulating needs and vision clearly to the AI.
• Elements of Effective Description:
  • Detailed context.
  • Desired output format.
  • Approach to the task.
  • Necessary context and information.
  • Tone and style of interaction.
• Example: Instead of "Make me a logo," provide details about company values, target audience, preferred colors, and style references. Or, when using an AI tutor, specify "Don't tell me the answer, just help me work through the problem step by step."
• Key Point: Description goes beyond simple prompts; it involves detailed, context-rich conversations.

4. Discernment: Evaluating AI Outputs

• Focus: Thoughtfully assessing AI-generated content.
• Evaluation Criteria:
  • Accuracy of facts.
  • Reasoning validity.
  • Alignment with brand values and audience.
  • Overall usefulness.
• Process:
  • Leverage domain expertise.
  • Develop critical judgment.
  • Distinguish useful information from irrelevant or inaccurate content.
  • Identify areas needing refinement.
• Example: Evaluating an AI-suggested marketing strategy for factual accuracy, logical reasoning, brand alignment, and practical value.
• Key Point: Discernment involves iterative loops of description and evaluation, refining requests based on AI outputs.

5. Diligence: Responsible AI Interaction

• Focus: Ethical and safe AI usage, taking ownership of AI-assisted work.
• Considerations:
  • Ensuring fairness and controlling for biases (e.g., in job descriptions).
  • Verifying information accuracy.
  • Protecting sensitive data.
  • Maintaining transparency about AI involvement.
  • Accepting accountability for AI-assisted work.
• Key Point: Diligence is crucial for responsible AI collaboration, ensuring ethical and safe outcomes.

6. Recap and Conclusion

• AI Fluency Recap: Practical skills, knowledge, insights, and values for effective, efficient, ethical, and safe AI usage.
• Four Ds Recap:
  • Delegation: Deciding when and how to use AI.
  • Description: Communicating clearly with AI.
  • Discernment: Evaluating AI outputs.
  • Diligence: Using AI responsibly.
• Value of the Four Ds: These competencies are fundamental skills that will remain relevant as AI technology evolves, unlike specific tools or techniques that may become outdated.