AI Capability Levels
A simple progression from using AI occasionally to shaping reliable human–AI systems.
Level 1 — Aware
Understands what AI can and cannot do. Uses basic tools with caution.
LiteracySafetyLevel 2 — Interactive
Can ask useful questions, add context, and refine answers through dialogue.
PromptingContextLevel 3 — Critical
Checks assumptions, verifies claims, compares alternatives, and recognises weak output.
VerificationJudgementLevel 4 — Collaborative
Uses AI for sustained thinking, learning, creation, and problem solving across multiple steps.
ReflectionCo-creationLevel 5 — Systematic
Builds repeatable workflows, personal knowledge systems, and dependable AI-supported processes.
WorkflowKnowledgeLevel 6 — Steward
Helps others use and train AI responsibly, improves standards, and governs complex AI use.
LeadershipGovernanceWhat the levels are not
They are not a ranking of human worth, academic intelligence, age, or professional status. A person may be highly advanced in one dimension and still developing in another.
The levels are intended as a language for development and discussion. Assessment methods can be designed later and should rely on authentic tasks, transparent criteria, and evidence of judgement.