BUILDING AI LITERACY IN THE COMMUNITY: FROM DIGITAL AWARENESS TO RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY USE

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has increasingly influenced everyday life, communication, education, employment, and access to information. Although AI provides various opportunities for improving productivity and solving practical problems, limited public understanding of AI may increase the risk of misinformation, privacy violations, excessive dependence on automated systems, and irresponsible technology use. This community service program aimed to strengthen AI literacy among community members by developing their understanding of AI and their ability to use AI technologies critically, safely, and responsibly. The program employed a community education and participatory training approach consisting of needs assessment, AI awareness sessions, interactive workshops, case-based learning, hands-on practice, discussion, and evaluation. Participants were introduced to the basic concepts of AI, everyday applications of AI, opportunities and limitations of generative AI, information verification, privacy and data protection, ethical considerations, and responsible technology use. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated through pre-test and post-test assessments, practical activities, case analysis, observation, and participant feedback. The program indicated an improvement in participants' understanding of AI and their awareness of the importance of verifying AI-generated information before using or sharing it. Participants also demonstrated greater awareness of privacy, digital safety, and ethical considerations when interacting with AI systems. The findings suggest that AI literacy programs should move beyond technological awareness toward critical, ethical, and practical competencies. Community-based AI education can therefore contribute to building a more informed and responsible society capable of responding to the opportunities and risks associated with the increasing use of artificial intelligence.

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