AI Literacy: Mindset, skillset, toolset – Why it matters more than ever
24 November 2025 | by Eric Nguyen
Highlights
Successful AI adoption doesn’t start with technology; it starts with people.
An effective AI plan is fundamentally about helping individuals adapt to new ways of working, using emerging tools to boost productivity, improve efficiency, and reduce unnecessary risks and costs. Without the right knowledge and mindset, even the most advanced AI systems won’t deliver meaningful results.
During the ACS AI awareness Month, on 20 November 2025, the ACS and AI CoLab Alliance hosted an energising, hands-on workshop titled “How Teams Solve Problems with AI.” The session attracted a wide mix of professionals from developers and students to business analysts, project managers, and anyone curious about AI for an interactive exploration of how teams can use AI to solve real-world problems.
What the workshop explored
Rather than focusing only on tools or technical capabilities, the workshop emphasised how diverse, cross-functional teams can collaborate effectively with AI. Participants were grouped into blended “fusion teams,” reflecting the mix of roles found in modern organisations. This ensured both technical and non-technical perspectives shaped each solution.
A highlight of the session was the introduction of “Vibe coding”, a creative, rapid, and collaborative approach that encourages experimentation and iterative problem-solving with the support of AI tools.
Why AI literacy matters for everyone
As AI becomes woven into everyday workflows across all industries, success increasingly depends on how well teams not just individuals can apply it. When people from different business areas and backgrounds understand how to work with AI together, organisations unlock faster innovation, stronger ideas, and better outcomes.
The workshop reinforced that AI literacy goes beyond knowing how to operate a tool. It includes developing the right mindset (openness and curiosity), skillset (structured thinking and problem-solving), and toolset (practical platforms that people can use straightway).
What participants gained
The workshop delivered strong engagement and useful takeaways for beginners and experienced professionals alike:
- Practical and accessible tools: Guided by the principle of “most advanced yet applicable,” Google AI Studio was chosen for its ease of use, strong capabilities, and generous free tier ideal for hands-on learning.
- Structured thinking and problem-solving: The McKinsey SCR framework helped participants clearly define challenges and craft effective prompts, providing a repeatable method they can take into future learning or work settings.
- Enhanced stronger teamwork: Groups produced better outputs when combining technical knowledge with business insights, proving the value of cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Key benefits for attendees
Participants left with practical experience and new confidence in applying AI to real problems, including:
- Turning ideas into working prototypes such as an early “Accessibility Chrome Extension” concept designed to support people with disability
- Strengthened collaborative problem-solving skills
- Real-time iteration and improvement using AI feedback
- Greater ease and openness in working across disciplines and working alongside AI
Expression of interest in AI workshops
We’d love to understand your interest in future AI learning opportunities. Please complete this short form to help us shape upcoming workshops that support your professional development. Contact us at acs.canb@acs.org.au if you have any questions.
For a copy of the AI workshop scenarios from 20 November 2025, click here
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