Document Type
Poster
Start Date
6-3-2026 12:30 PM
Description
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes deeply integrated into modern ICT and e-Accessibility services, older adults face a growing "digital divide" often characterised by a lack of awareness regarding how automated AI systems frequently functioning as "black boxes" infiltrate and impact their daily lives. This paper presents a multimodal workshop model designed to foster critical AI literacy among older adults, transitioning them from passive recipients to active stakeholders. Utilising an Action Research framework, the study details the co-creation phase of a three-phase national Age- Friendly AI literacy initiative in Ireland. Central to the methodology is the use of tangible exhibits as pedagogical tools. The ’AI Mask’, a physical embodied conversational agent, is used to demystify AI concepts such as Large Language Models (LLMs), generative AI and machine learning through hands-on interaction. The ’Art or AI?’ exhibit incorporates a public engagement activity where participants learn to distinguish between human-made and AI-generated art, fostering discussion on deepfakes and technological manipulation. Initial results from workshops involving over 250 older adults indicate significant improvements in self-reported understanding of and confidence in discussing AI. By prioritising physical accessi- bility, inclusive design and facilitated peer-to-peer discussions, the study demonstrates that artefact-driven approaches can effectively lower cognitive barriers and enable older populations to critically evaluate the societal and ethical implications of AI thus increasing confidence and AI literacy skills.
Included in
Engaging Older Adults through Artefact-Driven Approaches for AI Literacy Development: A Multi Stakeholder for Digital Inclusion
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes deeply integrated into modern ICT and e-Accessibility services, older adults face a growing "digital divide" often characterised by a lack of awareness regarding how automated AI systems frequently functioning as "black boxes" infiltrate and impact their daily lives. This paper presents a multimodal workshop model designed to foster critical AI literacy among older adults, transitioning them from passive recipients to active stakeholders. Utilising an Action Research framework, the study details the co-creation phase of a three-phase national Age- Friendly AI literacy initiative in Ireland. Central to the methodology is the use of tangible exhibits as pedagogical tools. The ’AI Mask’, a physical embodied conversational agent, is used to demystify AI concepts such as Large Language Models (LLMs), generative AI and machine learning through hands-on interaction. The ’Art or AI?’ exhibit incorporates a public engagement activity where participants learn to distinguish between human-made and AI-generated art, fostering discussion on deepfakes and technological manipulation. Initial results from workshops involving over 250 older adults indicate significant improvements in self-reported understanding of and confidence in discussing AI. By prioritising physical accessi- bility, inclusive design and facilitated peer-to-peer discussions, the study demonstrates that artefact-driven approaches can effectively lower cognitive barriers and enable older populations to critically evaluate the societal and ethical implications of AI thus increasing confidence and AI literacy skills.