On The Effects of Socioeconomic Status On The Access To and Usage of Ai In The Workplace

Authors:

Abstract: The advancement of new AI technologies has triggered a change in how we approach our work, fundamentally altering the way we obtain, access, and utilize information. Not only are AI systems different in their capabilities and functions, but also employees interacting with these systems can vary in their levels of access, the ways they are utilized, and how skilled or innovative they can be in performing with those systems. We argue that socio-economic status (SES) can be a critical factor in shaping access opportunities in working with AI systems. Particularly, we posit that high-SES, compared to low-SES, increases both access to and the propensity to use AI systems (e.g., ChatGPT). This relationship is mediated by perceived access and efficacy beliefs. We also propose an intervention that aims to enhance individual efficacy and argue that the mastery experience will moderate the relationship between SES and efficacy and the relationship between the access and the use of AI systems, thus reducing the discrepancy between SES, efficacy beliefs, and the use of AI systems.

Track: TECH

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Socioeconomic Status, Self-Efficacy, Digital Divide