But make it sociological: A workshop for incorporating Critical AI Literacy into sociology courses

• In Event: Teaching and Learning Symposium Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 3: Navigating AI and Digital Literacy

Abstract

How can we encourage students to develop a thoughtful, critical and “sociological” approach to generative AI? This interactive workshop grew out of our findings from a multi-disciplinary faculty development program to incorporate AI literacy and learning into their disciplines. We will begin with a working definition of AI literacy and a brief overview of our project and student findings to foreground the need for Critical AI Literacy in teaching sociology. Attendees will then engage in an activity designed to generate discussion about the nature of LLMs and their output. How might they incorporate AI learning as not just a “skill” that students must acquire, but also as an object of sociological inquiry? After sharing sample activities, the facilitators will lead attendees through a brainstorming session, where they will have an opportunity to generate ideas for learning activities and get feedback from peers and facilitators.

At the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Describe the elements of AI literacy in higher education contexts, as well as the perspective of Critical AI Literacy
Identify strategies for incorporating AI learning activities that align with course learning goals
Choose from and adapt or create “sociology-centered” AI learning activities, using the sample assignments and other resources shared by presenters

Authors

• Rifat A. Salam, CUNY Borough of Manhattan Comm College

• Elizabeth A. Wissinger, CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

• Mohammad Azhar, BMCC, The City University of New York

• Melissa Zavala, Borough of Manhattan Community College-The City University of New York