New Study: Foundational Skills Crucial in AI Era, Israel Ranks Low

A new study by the Taub Center argues that fundamental skills like reading literacy, mathematics, and adaptive problem-solving are becoming more critical than ever in the age of artificial intelligence. Despite AI's ability to perform many tasks, the ability to verify and understand AI-generated work requires a strong foundation in these basic skills, according to Professor Gil Epstein, a lead researcher at the Taub Center and economics professor at Bar-Ilan University.

The research, which analyzed international data from the OECD's PIAAC survey, found that foundational skills retain their value, particularly in professions highly exposed to AI. Epstein warns against over-reliance on AI, stating, "You can let AI write for you, do the math for you, and do everything, but if you want to check what it did and how it did it, to critique it and produce a better product, you must know the basics yourself." He emphasizes that while AI should be utilized, individuals must also retain the ability to work without it.

The study highlights that "foundational skills" encompass more than basic literacy and numeracy. They include deep reading comprehension, the ability to evaluate texts and compare sources, quantitative reasoning, and adaptive problem-solving for dynamic situations. The researchers recommend that the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Labor invest more in developing and improving these skills among the workforce.

Adding to the concern, the study points to Israel's low ranking in these foundational skills, placing 25th to 27th out of 31 OECD countries in the PIAAC survey. Professor Avi Weiss, president of the Taub Center, expressed concern about the potential loss of basic skills due to screen time and social media, urging parents and educators to recognize that working alongside AI will demand even more advanced skills from the next generation.

Economically, while AI may increase overall productivity, the benefits might not directly translate to higher individual salaries. The study suggests that workers with strong foundational skills will continue to earn more than those with weaker skills, and this wage gap may widen in AI-exposed professions, making the acquisition of these skills essential for future economic well-being.