Indian-American Professor Advocates AI Literacy for Future-Ready Students

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various sectors, the importance of AI literacy among students cannot be overstated. Abhilasha Kumar, an Indian-American psychology professor at Bowdoin College, advocates for a comprehensive understanding of AI systems beyond mere usage, emphasizing the need for critical engagement with these technologies.

The Imperative of AI Literacy

Kumar underscores that while AI tools are becoming integral in workplaces, students should not only learn to use these tools but also comprehend their underlying mechanisms. She asserts that AI literacy should precede AI usage, enabling students to engage with technology in an informed and critical manner.

Limitations of Current AI Models

Highlighting the constraints of AI models like ChatGPT and DeepSeek’s R1, Kumar notes that these systems often lack the ability to synthesize information from multiple reliable sources or provide nuanced responses to complex queries. Understanding these limitations is crucial for users to engage effectively with AI.

Advocating a ‘Show-Not-Tell’ Approach

Kumar proposes a structured educational approach to AI, termed as “show-not-tell,” where students are exposed to the learning processes of AI models, their potential failures, and the scientific principles governing them. This methodology aims to demystify AI and equip students with the skills to navigate and critique technological advancements.

Institutional Initiatives at Bowdoin College

In alignment with this vision, Bowdoin College has secured a three-year grant from the Davis Foundation for its “AI in Teaching Initiative.” This program aims to integrate AI understanding into classroom settings, fostering an environment where students can critically assess and utilize AI technologies.

Professor Kumar’s Diverse Academic Background

Kumar’s interdisciplinary academic journey enriches her perspective on AI education. She holds an undergraduate degree in mathematics and computing from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, a master’s in liberal arts with concentrations in computer science and psychology from Ashoka University, and a doctorate focusing on cognitive mechanisms underlying language processing and memory retrieval from Washington University in St. Louis.