Building Proficiency in GAI: Key Competencies for Success

The rapid proliferation and adoption of generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) underscores its ease of use. However, there has been limited research exploring what constitutes proficient use of GAI and what competencies underpin it. In this study, we adopt a grounded approach and semi-structured interviews to explore how twenty-five expert GAI users (all knowledge workers) define, exemplify, and explain GAI proficiency. A purposive sampling approach was adopted with the aim of capturing input from experts from a range of occupations and sectors towards answering three questions. First, can we identify the characteristics that differentiate proficient (more effective) use of GAI? Second, what competencies are seen to underlie proficient use of GAI? Third, what benefits are associated with more proficient use of GAI tools? Analysis of the descriptions shared by the experts revealed four aspects of GAI proficiency: effective prompting, informed and responsible choices, diversity of use, complexity of use, and frequency of use. In addition, the following themes emerged from the analysis of the competencies supporting more proficient use of GAI: GAI literacy, domain expertise, communication skills, metacognition skills, curiosity and inquisitiveness, flexibility and adaptability, diligence, and (in some contexts) information technology skills. More proficient use of GAI was seen to have benefits ranging from improved productivity, higher quality output, and more original work. By offering a comprehensive framework for effective use of GAI, grounded in real-world experience, this study guides further research and substantiates the continuing relevance of human skills, knowledge, and mindsets when working with GAI tools.