[ GLOSSARY ]
What is AI literacy?
Definition
Policy and practiceAI literacy
AI literacy is the knowledge and judgment to use AI well: what it does, where it fails, how to evaluate its output, how it uses data, and what rules apply.
Why it matters for schools
Students are ahead of their schools: 73% of teens say they have missed key AI literacy conversations with teachers. The OECD and European Commission framework includes a competence students can practice in any subject: "Evaluate whether AI outputs should be accepted, revised or rejected." Maryland's SB 720 requires the state to fold AI literacy into K-12 workforce-preparation and computer science standards by June 1, 2027.
In practice
Compare two AI answers, find a planted error, check sources, and explain AI output back in your own words. Read AI literacy for high school.
[ FAQ ]
Questions and answers
What is AI literacy for students?
Knowing what AI does, where it fails, how to judge its output, how it uses data and what rules apply.
Is AI literacy required in schools?
Some states are adding it. Maryland's SB 720 requires AI literacy in K-12 standards by June 1, 2027, with duties on public systems.
What is one AI literacy skill students can practice now?
Deciding whether an AI output should be accepted, revised or rejected, and saying why.
[ SOURCES ]
Sources
Facts checked Oct 18, 2026.
- 1Common Sense Media, Teens in the AI Era: Schoolwork and Skills That MatterAug 18, 2026 · commonsensemedia.org
- 2OECD and European Commission, AILit Framework2026 · ailiteracyframework.org
- 3Maryland Department of Legislative Services, SB 720 fiscal and policy note (enrolled)2026 · mgaleg.maryland.gov
[ AI FOR SCHOOLS ]
The AI your school can approve.