AI Literacy Debate in the U.S.: A Definition Exists, But No Measurement
Artificial intelligence (AI) literacy has become one of the most critical topics in the U.S. across education and workforce sectors. While calls for students and employees to “learn AI” are increasing, experts warn that without proper mechanisms for measurement and evaluation, such efforts remain insufficient.
The U.S. Department of Education, in its new priorities for federal grants, defined AI literacy as a combination of technical knowledge, durable skills, and future-ready attitudes. At the same time, the White House released the “American AI Action Plan,” aiming to strengthen national leadership in artificial intelligence.
However, experts point out that the central issue lies in how this literacy can be measured. According to the 2025 ETS Human Progress Report, 55 percent of managers believe their employees are proficient in AI, while only 43 percent of employees share that confidence. This perception gap between educational institutions and the business world increases both risks and inequalities. Education leaders emphasize that AI literacy must extend beyond technical tool usage to include ethical awareness, critical thinking, and responsible application.