E196 ‘AI Literacy and Equity’ with Ireland’s AI Ambassador Patricia Scanlon

Today’s guest is Patricia Scanlon, Founder, Chair of Ireland’s AI Council & Ireland’s AI Ambassador. In a thought-provoking discussion, Patricia delves into the transformative impact of AI on education, business, and society. Her conversation explores the journey of innovation, the challenges of early adoption and the ethical implications of AI technology.

Patricia began her journey with a vision to revolutionise educational technology through voice AI. Reflecting on this journey, she highlights the need for data privacy and equity, emphasising the ethical considerations inherent in technology used within educational settings. She believes that every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background or accent, deserves technology that works equally well for them. This dedication to equity set Soapbox Labs apart, establishing it as a leader in the ed tech industry.

Initially conceived as part of a government strategy to foster a national conversation on AI, the role of AI Ambassador quickly evolved. The rapid development and public adoption of generative AI and LLMs necessitated a shift from sparking interest to fielding questions and promoting understanding. Recognising that AI is multifaceted, Patricia advocates for a council of experts to provide comprehensive advice, acknowledging that no single perspective suffices in addressing AI’s complexities.

On intriguing question about the pace at which AI has become mainstream, Patricia’s response is a testament to the rapid acceleration in AI’s capabilities. Despite working in the field for over two decades, even she finds the current pace of advancement astonishing. The frequency of new model releases and their subsequent impact on companies illustrates the profound uncertainty and rapid change defining the AI landscape.

Patricia shares a nuanced perspective on AI’s hype. While there is frenzy around valuations of tech companies, the potential transformative impact of AI is often underappreciated. She concurs with tech leader Sean Blanchfield’s assertion that AI is not just a department – it’s how business should be conducted. Patricia emphasises that every aspect of a business can benefit from AI, from coding and product development to HR and finance. Those who ignore this technological shift may find themselves left behind in a competitive global market.

The podcast underscores the importance of AI literacy across all levels of an organisation. Both leaders and employees should engage with AI tools to improve their understanding of the technology’s potential. Patricia encourages a hands-on approach, suggesting that individuals interact with tools like ChatGPT to learn how AI can assist in everyday tasks. By demystifying AI, individuals can empower themselves and their organisations to harness its full potential.

For entrepreneurs navigating the AI landscape, Patricia’s advice is clear: embrace an AI-first mindset. This means hiring individuals who are either already versed in AI or willing to learn. With funding becoming increasingly competitive, startups must do more with less, integrating AI from the outset to maximise efficiency and demonstrate traction.

As AI continues to redefine industries and societal norms, voices like Patricia Scanlon’s are crucial in guiding ethical, equitable and innovative pathways forward. Her story, insights and advocacy paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities AI presents, prompting us all to engage thoughtfully with the technology shaping our world.