New survey from Digital Poverty Alliance finds 40 percent of young people do not know what an algorithm is

A new report from the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) has found that many children are consuming content online blind, without understanding what an algorithm is.

It also highlighted that just ten percent of those surveyed said their child has received any AI literacy training in school. While 72 percent of those surveyed said that they or their child knew what AI was, 90 percent admitted that they do not know what a large language model (LLM) is. 

“Across the UK, the conversation about media literacy has never been more urgent as misinformation,  influence of algorithms and artificial intelligence now shapes how we participate in society,” says Elizabeth Anderson, CEO at DPA.

“The ability to decipher between the credibility and intent of media content, including recognising bias, misinformation and how digital platforms show information is more than a skill. It is a framework grounded in the reality that young people need access to the right tools at the right time. 

“Ending digital poverty is not only about access or connectivity. It is about ensuring everyone can engage with the digital world critically, confidently, and safely. Media literacy is central to that mission and fundamental to the informed, equitable society we aim to build.

“This report is a call to policy makers, educators and industry leaders to embed media literacy into education and community programmes, so that every young person has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”

The report also highlights a lack of media literacy education, with just 23 percent of parents stating that they or their children have received any form of media literacy education in school.

Graeme Stewart, Head of Public Sector at Check Point Software adds: “The rise of deepfakes, AI scams and cyber threats makes the online world an incredibly dangerous place for young people. This research makes it clear that despite several government initiatives, major gaps in digital literacy still exist, and these need to be urgently addressed. There are no quick-fix solutions, but it’s crucial that ministers work closely with cyber experts to enrich the curriculum and provide the necessary training to help the next generation spot the risks.”