Author

BRYAN C. BOOTS, ALEX KRAUSE MATLACK, THEO RICHARDSON-GOOL

Year

2024

Publisher

SSRN

DOI/Link

View Source

Abstract

The rapid evolution of today’s technology landscape, driven by algorithm-driven
systems (ADS), profoundly impacts everyday life and major societal functions.
ADS, often perceived as mysterious or magical, are sophisticated computational
methods that enable automated decision-making in various domains such as
finance, employment, and social media content delivery. Despite their pervasive
influence, understanding of these systems remains limited among the general
public, posing risks to informed citizenship and democratic participation. This
paper addresses the critical need for Algorithmic Literacy, a concept that extends
beyond existing frameworks of media and digital literacy to encompass a basic
proficiency in understanding how ADS function and influence personal and societal
outcomes. Our research identifies a significant gap in Algorithmic Literacy among
social media users, exacerbated by the increasing complexity and opacity of AI
technologies. We propose a preliminary definition of Algorithmic Literacy and
argue for its necessity in contemporary society. The paper outlines initial measures
for fostering Algorithmic Literacy and sets a future research agenda to support these
efforts. Our goal is to initiate a critical discourse on Algorithmic Literacy, calling
on citizens, educators, policymakers, media professionals, and technologists to
prioritize this issue to ensure informed and active participation in an increasingly
algorithm-driven world.

Language

ENGLISH

Keywords

Media Literacy, Algorithmic Literacy