The AI Fluency framework helps us build a mindset of how to think about working with AI.
The credibility of the AI Fluency concept goes to the Anthropic company, which has partnered with academic experts Prof. Joseph Feller and Prof. Rick Dakan to launch a course about the framework.
So, let’s see what it is.
In one sentence, AI Fluency is the conscious ability to collaborate with AI in ways that are effective, efficient, ethical, and safe.
The 4D Core Competencies
It has four core competencies of Delegation, Description, Discernment, and Diligence. These competencies apply across all three major ways of interacting with AI, including Automation, Augmentation, and Agency.
What does it really mean to be fluent with AI?!
AI is reshaping how we communicate, create, learn, and solve problems in both our work and personal lives. It helps us with a new way of writing, brainstorming, decision-making, and much more. But here is the thing. Having these powerful systems doesn’t automatically mean we know how to effectively use them.
Think about a time when you got an unexpected response from an AI and you weren’t sure how to proceed. Or when you struggled to explain exactly what you needed and left the interaction feeling frustrated. Or maybe you have wondered if the information you are sharing is being properly protected.
All of these situations highlight the gaps between simply having access to AI and truly being fluent with AI.
So, we need to develop a lasting skill in ourselves to be able to constructively and fluently use this newcomer.
Let’s talk about the four competencies of the AI Fluency framework.
Delegation: Deciding on what work should be done by humans, what work should be done by AI, and how to distribute tasks between them. Includes understanding your goals, AI capabilities, and making strategic choices about collaboration.
Description: Effectively communicating with AI systems, including clearly defining outputs, guiding AI processes, and specifying desired AI behaviors and interactions.
Discernment: Thoughtfully and critically evaluating AI outputs, processes, behaviors, and interactions. Includes assessing quality, accuracy, appropriateness, and determining areas for improvement.
Diligence: Using AI responsibly and ethically. Includes making thoughtful choices about AI systems and interactions, maintaining transparency, and taking accountability for Al-assisted work.
The three ways to interact with AI
Now, let’s take one step further and talk about how humans can interact with AI systems. There are three modes of interaction:
Automation: When AI performs specific tasks based on specific human instructions. The human defines what needs to be done, and the AI executes it.
Augmentation: When humans and AI collaborate as thinking partners to complete tasks together. Involves iterative back-and-forth where both contribute to the outcome.
Agency: When humans configure AI to work independently on their behalf, including interacting with other humans or AI. The human establishes the Al's knowledge and behavior patterns rather than specifying exact actions.
As the final word, AI fluency develops through continuous learning by intentional practices, not overnight mastery.
This is going to become the bare minimum literacy required by the job market.
So, ask yourself a question: Am I really willing to be fluent with AI?! If yes, then you need to invest in your learning to become an AI-aware pro in your field of profession.
What is the next step?!
If you want to go further, you can join my upcoming Professional Scrum Product Owner - AI Essentials (PSPO-AI Essentials) class. See this link for more information: