AI Literacy as a Core Future Skill: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This systematic literature review critically examines the construct of artificial intelligence (AI) literacy as a foundational competency for the 21st-century workforce and educational landscape. As generative AI becomes inextricably linked with global economic and societal operations, the demand for sophisticated human-AI interaction frameworks has surged. Synthesizing contemporary peer-reviewed studies, international policy frameworks, and empirical data from 2020 to 2026, this review identifies the multidimensional nature of AI literacy, encompassing cognitive understanding, practical competency, and rigorous ethical evaluation. The findings highlight the critical role of AI literacy in fostering self-regulated learning in educational settings and boosting creative self-efficacy and productivity in the workforce. Furthermore, the study addresses significant systemic barriers, including the digital divide and the ethical imperatives to mitigate algorithmic bias and safeguard data privacy. Ultimately, this review proposes that AI literacy is no longer an isolated technical skill but a mandatory pillar of modern civic and professional competence, demanding immediate, equitable integration into global educational curricula and organizational training paradigms.