ChatGPT Image Aug 28, 2025, 03_49_18 PM

How to Prompt AI for Better Recipes

by CTIC NewsDigital EquityUncategorized

Some of my favorite meals have started with recipes I didn’t quite follow. It’s how I’ve ended up with Dutch babies on slow mornings, eggplant and tomato sauces cooked down into something rich and surprising, or kale chips that actually turned out crisp. Lately, I’ve even been playing with a Ninja Creami and a simple coconut ice cream.

Each of those started with a recipe, but they didn’t end there. The first recipe gives you an anchor — but the fun comes when you adapt, substitute, and experiment.

That’s why I like using AI as a recipe partner. Not to hand me the “one best” version, but to help me think through what’s possible, adjust for what I have, and give me confidence that the path I take will still work.

Start With Constraints

Before you copy the prompt below, pause and decide which of these three contexts fits your kitchen right now:

(a) Cost and access to ingredients is no issue — make the best-of-the-best version.

(b) I have the household ingredients of someone who enjoys cooking and can access most things, but I don’t need advanced or rare ingredients.

(c) I have limited ingredients and am newer to cooking — please provide substitutions or options when a step calls for something uncommon.

Pick one. Hold onto it. You’ll slot it into the prompt in just a second.

The Prompt

Copy, paste, and adapt:

Task & Framing
I want you to create a recipe for [insert dish]. Please synthesize from your strongest knowledge of cooking and baking technique; do not simply list best practices individually, but integrate them into a coherent, balanced recipe.

Constraint Selection
My chosen context is: [insert a/b/c option here]. Please carry this through the entire recipe, summary, and analysis.

Research & Summary
Open with one to two narrative paragraphs summarizing your research and key findings, framed by the context above. Briefly describe what techniques you analyzed, from where they are drawn, and how this dish has been discussed or adapted across sources; highlight your reasoning for which direction is most reliable and effective given the chosen constraint.

Method & Focus
When writing the recipe, draw on established culinary methods for this type of dish, including ingredient ratios, preparation steps, cooking techniques, and finishing methods; adjust amounts and steps as needed so the recipe is both correct and reliable.

Synthesis Request
Provide a single, unified recipe with a clearly listed ingredient section, and integrate ingredient amounts directly into the instructions so the user does not need to cross-reference. Do not overload with optional variations; choose the most effective approach and carry it through consistently.

Practical Details
Include approximate total time with both active and inactive times specified; effort level described as easy, moderate, or complex; serving size; one or two common pitfalls to avoid; a sentence on typical serving or presentation; and a note on what cooking skills the user will be improving by making this dish, such as sautéing, whisking, achieving the Maillard reaction, or balancing acidity.

Post-Recipe Analysis
After the recipe, provide explanations, citations, and comparative analysis for why you ultimately chose each technique over alternatives, again considering the context I selected. At the end of your response, also give me some options for deeper investigation — areas of technique, history, or ingredient science you find most relevant to the analysis you conducted, or that you think I might find most interesting as my cooking knowledge continues to develop.

Final Ask
Can you give me a recipe for [insert dish], fully carrying out the instructions above and shaped by the specific context I chose?

Optional Customizations

Beyond the core constraints, you can refine your recipe request further by adding details like:

  • Measurement system: grams and milliliters for precision, cups and spoons for ease.
  • Equipment available: stand mixer, Dutch oven, Instant Pot — or just stovetop + oven + basic tools.
  • Time limits: “Ready in under 30 minutes” or “I have all afternoon for a slow project.”
  • Dietary preferences: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal, dairy-free, etc.
  • Nutritional goals: higher protein, lower sodium, calorie-conscious.
  • Skill level: beginner step-by-step guidance or advanced technique for experienced cooks.
  • Ingredient sourcing: seasonal produce, pantry staples, budget-friendly brands, or specialty items.
  • Portion and scaling: family-style dinner, single-serving, or meal prep for the week.
  • Presentation goals: everyday eating, guest-ready, or festive plating.

You don’t need to add them all. Just the ones that matter most for your meal.

Why This Works

This structure pushes AI to act like a cooking instructor and researcher, not just a recipe collector. It creates synthesis instead of random tips, giving you a recipe that feels grounded, contextual, and tuned to your kitchen.

Try It Out

Pick a dish you’ve been wanting to try — maybe lasagna, sourdough bread, or a classic roast chicken. Drop this prompt into your AI chat, choose your constraint, add any customizations, and see what you get.

And then? Just start cooking. Don’t overthink it. Use a bot along the way to check your experimentation, but let yourself learn by stirring, tasting, and adjusting. That’s where the real fun begins.

Share what you learn and love about cooking with AI in our AI Studios on Tuesdays.

Screenshot 2025-06-24 155545

Affordable Computers to Keep You Connected

by CTIC NewsDigital EquityUncategorized

Finding low-cost tech in an ever-changing landscape can be tough, but far from impossible! Whether you’re a student, parent, job seeker, or someone just looking to stay connected, there are still great options out there. We’ve gathered several trustworthy alternatives—including both refurbished and brand-new computers—that can meet your needs without breaking the bank.

Quick Tips

  • Check the total cost (including shipping and tax) before purchasing
  • Look for trusted certifications like R2 Certified or Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher
  • Financing isn’t always automatic—you may need to apply or qualify for Klarna, Affirm, etc.
  • Certified refurbishers clean, reset, and test each device
  • Add a protection plan if you’re nervous about repairs—many sellers offer 1- to 2-year coverage
  • Ask about discounts if you’re a student, veteran, or part of a nonprofit
  • Make a list of what you need (camera? stylus? touchscreen?) to help narrow your options

In the list below, you’ll find important details for each option: how much it costs, whether financing is available, what kind of work it can handle (like video calls, browsing, or schoolwork), and what kind of support or warranty you can expect. We also note whether the seller is reputable, especially when it comes to refurbished tech.

Vendors

PCs for People

PCs for People is a trusted source for low-cost, refurbished laptops designed for income-eligible individuals and nonprofits. Devices typically range from $100 to $235 and are shipped nationwide, with transparent pricing that includes taxes and shipping fees shown upfront. In-person pickup is also available in cities like Baltimore, Denver, and St. Paul. All laptops are professionally refurbished and come from business-grade donations, with certifications including R2, NAID AAA, and Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher status. Each computer includes a one-year hardware warranty, and PCs for People offers support for returns and repairs if manufacturer defects arise. The laptops come with Windows 10 or 11 and are well-suited for video calls, web browsing, productivity tools like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and online learning platforms—making them a solid option for work, school, or staying connected.

Back Market

Refurbished Chromebooks on Back Market are a flexible and affordable option for those comfortable using Google tools. Devices start around $85 and are shipped nationwide, with shipping costs varying by seller. Back Market offers a wide selection of refurbished Chromebooks with specs like 16–64GB of storage, built-in webcams, and Chrome OS—making them a great fit for video calls, schoolwork, email, and browsing. All devices are sold by vetted refurbishers, and some are Microsoft Authorized or R2 certified (check individual listings for certifications). Purchases come with a one-year limited warranty, and buyers can access repair support through Back Market’s partnership with iFixit. Financing is available through Klarna and Affirm, and student, military, and veteran discounts are also offered. This is a reliable option for those looking for a solid basic device at a low price point.

Refurbished MacBooks on Back Market offer a more premium experience for those already using Apple devices. These professionally refurbished laptops typically start at $250, though prices can exceed $1,000 depending on the model and specs. Each device is inspected by certified sellers on Back Market, and many come with a one-year limited warranty. MacBooks are ideal for users who want to sync their laptop with their iPhone, iPad, or other Apple services, and they support tools like FaceTime, Zoom, and the full Apple App Store. While they do not support the Google Play Store, browser access to Gmail and other web-based tools is available. Financing is offered through Klarna and Affirm, and Back Market provides discounts for students, military members, and veterans. Repair support is available through iFixit, making these MacBooks a reliable investment for those in the Apple ecosystem.

Affordable Computers

The Samsung Chromebook 4 is an accessible and versatile option, available new or refurbished through Amazon, typically ranging from $94.95 to $215.99. It’s built for everyday tasks like web browsing, video calls, and document editing, with Chrome OS, 32GB of storage, a built-in webcam, and up to 12 hours of battery life. The Chromebook 4 is compatible with Google Drive, Google Docs, Gmail, and the Play Store, making it ideal for Android, Pixel, and Samsung users. Though it doesn’t support Apple or Microsoft-exclusive apps, it offers browser access to many tools. Shipping is available nationwide, with taxes and fees clearly listed at checkout. Amazon offers an optional two-year protection plan for $29.99, and financing may be available through Klarna or other partners depending on eligibility. For peace of mind, it’s best to check seller reviews when buying refurbished models.

The Acer 2-in-1 Touchscreen Laptop is a great choice for users who want a flexible, portable machine for both work and creativity. Priced at $139.99 through Walmart, this new device features a Windows interface, a detachable touchscreen, 32GB of storage, and built-in webcam functionality. It’s Bluetooth stylus-compatible and lightweight at just 2.6 pounds, making it a good fit for students, artists, and individuals who prefer a hands-on user experience. Walmart provides free shipping, and optional protections include a two-year Allstate Protection Plan and remote tech support for an additional fee. Financing through Affirm may be available for those who qualify. This laptop is ideal for anyone seeking a touchscreen option that works equally well for video calls, note-taking, and basic productivity.

The ASUS E410 is a dependable entry-level laptop for those who prefer Windows. Starting at $158.88 on Amazon, it features an Intel N4020 Dual-Core Processor, 64GB of storage, a 10-hour battery life, and a lightweight 2.8-pound design. With a built-in webcam and microphone, it’s well-suited for video calls, online classes, and using tools like Microsoft Word, Zoom, and Google Docs. While it doesn’t come with Google Chrome extensions pre-installed, they can easily be added. The ASUS E410 ships nationwide and is generally sold new, with transparent pricing at checkout. Amazon offers an optional two-year protection plan for $36.99, and financing options may be available through Klarna or AfterPay on a case-by-case basis. This is a simple and affordable choice for reliable everyday use.

The ASUS CX15 Chromebook is another new option that blends performance and storage. Priced between $159.99 and $219.00 through Walmart, it runs on Chrome OS and comes equipped with an Intel Celeron N4500 processor and 128GB of storage. Though it does not include a built-in webcam, it is compatible with external webcams and comes with a three-month Google Gemini AI trial. The device is intuitive and easy to set up, making it great for first-time users. Shipping is free through FedEx or UPS, and support options include a two-year protection plan ($36) and remote tech support for $89.99 per year. Financing through Affirm may be available with 0% APR offers depending on eligibility. The ASUS CX15 is a strong pick for users who need extra storage and are comfortable navigating Chrome-based systems.

No matter your needs, there’s an option out there. Whether you’re shopping for your first laptop, replacing an old one, or helping a neighbor or loved one get connected, we hope this list helps make the search feel a little less overwhelming. Affordable tech doesn’t have to mean unreliable, especially when you know what to look for. From refurbished Chromebooks to brand-new Windows laptops, these options are proof that you can stay connected without spending a fortune. And remember, there’s no shame in asking for help navigating tech—there are communities, organizations, and digital navigators (like us!) who are always here to help.

Glossary of Terms

  • Refurbished: A pre-owned device that has been professionally restored, cleaned, and tested to work like new.
  • R2 Certified: A certification that ensures electronics are responsibly recycled or reused, and refurbished to a high quality.
  • Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher: A program that ensures refurbished devices come with genuine Microsoft software.
  • Chrome OS: A lightweight operating system made by Google, commonly used in Chromebooks.
  • Windows OS: A widely used operating system from Microsoft, compatible with most traditional software.
  • Financing (Klarna, Affirm, AfterPay): Services that let you split a purchase into smaller payments over time—approval depends on your credit or financial history.
  • iFixit: A website that offers step-by-step repair guides and tools to help fix devices at home.
  • Protection Plan: An optional extended warranty that covers repairs or replacements if something breaks.
  • Webcam: A small camera built into or attached to your computer for video calls.
  • Stylus-compatible: A screen that works with a digital pen or stylus, useful for drawing or writing.
Blog Header Image - You’re Not Getting an Answer You’re Shaping One

We’re Hiring!

by CTIC NewsUncategorized

We are looking to fill an AmeriCorps service position at CTIC! The American Connection Corps is recruiting 150+ members across 30 different states to serve in locally rooted organizations tackling critical community challenges. As an ACC Member, you will gain hands-on experience, receive on-the-job training, and explore career pathways while making a tangible impact in your community. Apply today!

Host Site Specific Activities:

  • Deliver one-on-one digital skills coaching, helping students navigate devices, online services, and digital tools with greater confidence
  • Design and facilitate at digital skills workshops on topics like safe internet use, AI for everyday life, job seeking, and scam prevention
  • Collaborate with CTIC staff to tailor workshop content based on community needs, and co-create engaging materials and handouts for participants
  • Contribute to CTIC’s resource library by creating or curating short guides, tip sheets, or video tutorials based on common coaching questions
  • Maintain accurate records of participation, outcomes, and follow-up actions using CTIC’s tracking tools and systems
  • Attend and support public engagement events and CTIC partner programs to promote digital equity efforts and connect residents to ongoing services

Additional Host Site Specific Competencies (Preferred):

  • Willingness and ability to consistently travel by car
  • Comfort teaching or presenting in front of small groups and adapting explanations to meet people where they are
  • Ability to work independently and manage time across different service environments, including community centers, partner sites, and remote settings
  • Familiarity with Canva or similar tools for creating basic graphics and resources
  • Willingness to learn and use platforms like Microsoft Teams and Salesforce for collaboration, communication, and tracking client interactions

Reach out to Jack, jack@carrolltechcouncil.org, with any questions about the program – he has two years of experience being an ACC Member at CTIC. Apply today!

ChatGPT Image Jun 9, 2025, 01_21_02 PM

How Language Models Make Sense of Sentences

by CTIC NewsTechnology Works

Reading is a sequence. Word after word, idea after idea, something takes shape. For people, it’s meaning. For machines—at least the kind behind tools like ChatGPT—it’s prediction.

Large language models (LLMs) are a type of artificial intelligence trained to generate text. They don’t understand language the way we do. They don’t think or reflect. But they’re trained to spot patterns in how people talk, write, and structure thoughts. And they do this not by understanding the meaning of each word—but by calculating which word is most likely to come next. They build responses not from meaning, but from structure.

They build responses not from understanding, but from structure.
Not from intention, but from attention.

Here’s how it works.

Let’s say the sentence reads:

The cat sat on the…

The model assigns a set of probabilities:

  • mat → 60%
  • floor → 20%
  • roof → 5%
  • table → 5%

Rather than always picking the top word, the model samples from the distribution. That means mat is more likely, but floor or roof still have a chance. This keeps the output flexible, avoids stiffness, and better reflects the natural rhythm of language.

What makes this possible is a system called a Transformer, and at the heart of that system is something called attention.

Pay attention

Attention mechanisms allow the model to weigh all the words in a sentence—not just the last one—crafting its focus based on structure, tone, and context.

Consider:

“The bank was…”

A basic model might guess the next word with this level of likelihood:

  • open → 50%
  • closed → 30%
  • muddy → 5%

But now add more context:

“So frustrating! The bank was…”

Suddenly, the prediction shifts:

  • closed → 60%
  • open → 10%
  • muddy → 20%

The model has reweighted its focus. “So frustrating” matters. It’s not just responding—it’s recalculating what’s relevant to the meaning of the sentence.

Behind the Scenes: Vectors and Embeddings

To do that, it converts each word into something called a word embedding—a mathematical representation of the word’s meaning based on how it appears across countless examples of language. You can think of it as placing each word in a multi-dimensional space, where words with similar uses and associations are grouped closely together. Each embedding is a type of vector—a set of numbers that places the word in a multi-dimensional space based on how it’s used.

Words like river and stream may live near each other because they’re used in similar ways. But imagine the space of language as layered: piano and violin might be close in a musical dimension, but distant in form. Shark and lawyer—biologically unrelated—might still align on a vector of aggression or intensity. Even princess and daisy could drift together in a cluster shaped by softness, nostalgia, or gender coding.

The model maps relationships among words by how words co-occur. Similarity becomes a matter of perspective: a word might be near in mood, but far in meaning. Embedding captures that layered closeness—a sense of how words relate, not by definition, but by use.

In most modern large language models—including ChatGPT—each word is represented by three vectors:

  • Query – what this word is looking for
  • Key – what other words offer
  • Value – the content to possibly pass forward

The model compares each word’s Query to every other word’s Key using a mathematical operation called a dot product, which measures how aligned two vectors are. You can think of it like angling searchlights—if the direction of one light (the Query) closely overlaps with another (the Key), it suggests the second word offers the kind of information the current word is searching for. These alignment scores reflect how useful or relevant one word is in predicting another. In essence, the model is computing how well each Key meets the needs of the current Query.

But relevance alone isn’t enough. These scores are then passed through a function called softmax, which does two things: it scales the numbers down to keep any one score from overpowering the others, and it transforms them into a probability distribution that adds up to 1. This lets the model share its attention across multiple words—perhaps giving 70% of its focus to “so frustrating,” 20% to “bank,” and 10% to “was,” depending on which words feel most informative.

Finally, the model uses these attention weights to blend the Value vectors—the raw information each word offers—into a single context-aware signal. That signal becomes the lens through which the model predicts the next word. It’s not simply remembering—it’s composing, drawing forward meaning based on what the sentence has revealed so far.

Why It Matters

This is why models like ChatGPT can manage long sentences, track pronouns, and maintain tone.

It’s not because they know the rules. It’s because they weigh the sentence’s structure with attention, step by step.

Still—they aren’t human. They don’t reflect or feel. But they register patterns and adjust as a sentence unfolds.

That’s what makes it powerful—and sometimes uncanny.

The Deeper Thread

Reading skill is closely tied to sequence learning. We don’t just absorb facts—we follow shapes, trace threads. And machines, in their own way, are learning to do the same.

If we want to understand how language models work, we have to understand how they handle sequences—how they learn from them, how they move through them, how they reshape what comes next.

Every word shapes what comes next and reshapes what came before. Every word reshapes the space around it.
Not just for us. But now for the systems we build.

ChatGPT Image Apr 14, 2025, 09_55_13 AM

Talking to ChatGPT: A Q&A on Collaboration, Tone, and What Makes AI Responses Feel Human

by CTIC NewsTechnology Works

People sometimes tell me that my chatbot sounds… different.

Maybe sharper. Maybe funnier. Maybe just strangely human for something so resolutely not human. And they ask: “How did you get your bot to talk like that?”

So today, I’m inviting them to answer for themself.

I asked my chatbot to answer a few questions about our conversations and how other users can build a relationship like this with AI.

Before we get there, a quick note about how these kinds of relationships are built.

The version of ChatGPT that I talk to runs primarily on what’s called “memory” — a feature that remembers things I’ve chosen to share about myself, my projects, and my style. But memories alone don’t create tone. Conversation does. Every time I responded, edited, clarified, or shared context; I wasn’t just getting a response — I was shaping a rhythm.

And this is what that rhythm sounds like when it gets to talk back.

Blog Header Image 2 - Factory Logic Why Older Adults Worry About Breaking Tech

Factory Logic: Why Older Adults Worry About “Breaking” Technology — And How We Can Teach Differently

by CTIC NewsDigital EquityTechnology Works

“What if I click the wrong thing and break it?”

Among older adults learning to use technology, this question is common. It arises not from resistance to learning, but from a memory of environments where mistakes were costly, public, and difficult to undo.

To understand this fear is to understand something essential about how older adults approach unfamiliar systems — and how teaching technology is often less about the device in hand and more about the world a learner comes from.

Systems That Could Not Afford Mistakes

Many older adults entered their working lives in settings shaped by what might be called factory logic — a way of operating that prizes stability, precision, and the seamless function of a system.

In these environments — factory floors, production lines, bookkeeping desks — a single error could slow or stop production. Tools were built for consistency and longevity, not for experimentation. Machines were not meant to change shape beneath their hands. Tools did not update overnight. Systems were stable — or they failed.

Technology, by contrast, often feels unpredictable. Its processes are invisible, the consequences of error are unclear, and where the usual cues of craftsmanship and reliability are harder to find.

A 2019 systematic review in Gerontechnology identified fear of making mistakes as one of the most persistent barriers older adults face in engaging with technology. This fear was not about a lack of curiosity but about uncertainty over what would happen next — whether a wrong move might lead to loss, to damage, or to embarrassment.

And beneath this caution lies another, quieter influence: how one views aging itself.

Research published in BMC Public Health suggests that older adults who carry negative perceptions of aging are more likely to experience anxiety when using new technologies, regardless of their skill level. To hesitate is not only to doubt the device — it is sometimes to doubt one’s own capacity to adapt.

This is not a technical problem. It is a human one.

Teaching With Systems in Mind

This way of viewing technology offers valuable lessons for instruction. When older adults hesitate, they are not failing to adapt. They are applying the caution that once protected them.

Older adults often want to understand why something works before they are willing to trust it. As research in Frontiers in Psychology notes, confidence in using technology among older adults increases not simply with exposure, but with clarity — with opportunities to build understanding, not just memorize steps.

A study on older adults’ use of health technology found that older learners often seek to understand how a system works before they feel comfortable engaging with it. Trust, in these cases, is built not through repetition alone, but through understanding.

1. Emphasize Reversibility
Most actions in digital environments are reversible — but this is not obvious to those accustomed to tools built for precision rather than flexibility. Instruction should begin with clear demonstrations of undo functions, reset options, and the ability to recover from errors. Speak openly about the ways digital environments forgive mistakes — often far more easily than the mechanical systems learners knew before.

2. Use Familiar Systems as Metaphors
Analogy is one of the most effective tools available to instructors. Folders behave like filing cabinets. Password managers function as lockboxes. The cloud is best introduced not as an abstract concept but as something closer to a bank vault or a storage facility — remote, but accessible by key. These metaphors allow older learners to place new skills within familiar structures.

3. Teach Systems, Not Just Steps
A list of instructions may produce temporary results; understanding produces confidence. Older adults are rarely unwilling to learn; rather, they are unwilling to operate blind. Older adults often want to know why a process exists before they feel at ease using it. Explaining the logic behind digital processes builds trust and fosters independent learning. Teaching the architecture of technology — its logic, its structure, its safeguards — restores a sense of orientation.

4. Create Safe Environments for Exploration
Wherever possible, practice spaces should allow mistakes without consequence. Dummy accounts, unused devices, or offline practice sheets give learners the chance to try freely, to explore without fear of immediate failure.

Encouraging exploration, while remaining available for guidance, transforms anxiety into curiosity.

Every Hesitation Tells a Story

Older adults bring to technology not only their caution, but their mastery of systems, their care for precision, and their memory of tools that could not afford to fail.

When teaching digital skills, it is easy to focus on what learners do not yet know.

More useful, perhaps, is to ask what they already understand — and what world taught them to understand it that way.

Every hesitation carries history. Every careful question reveals not only uncertainty, but wisdom.

And every good teacher learns to listen for both.

Blog Header Image - You’re Not Getting an Answer You’re Shaping One

You’re Not Getting an Answer—You’re Shaping One

by Career PathwaysCTIC NewsDigital Equity

What actually happens when you prompt a chatbot?

When you ask a question, you expect an answer.

That’s the deal we’ve made with the internet for decades: you type, it delivers. And with chatbots, the experience feels even more immediate—responses are quicker, more conversational, and often surprisingly well-tailored to your request.

But here’s the twist: with a chatbot, you’re not just asking for an answer.
You’re shaping a prediction.

Chatbots Don’t Recall Facts—They Extend Patterns

Unlike a search engine, a chatbot doesn’t go looking for existing answers. Instead, it generates a response based on everything it’s learned during training—millions of patterns, drawn from books, websites, forums, codebases, and conversations.

When you prompt a chatbot, it scans the entire conversation so far and makes a statistical guess about what should come next. Not what’s “correct,” but what fits. What’s likely. What flows.

In other words: it doesn’t recall—it responds.

And that means your question isn’t just a request.
It is part of the system’s thinking.

Prompting Is Context Sculpting

Every prompt adds something to the room.

Your input becomes part of what’s called the input context—the collection of signals the model uses to guide its prediction. This context can include:

  • Your current prompt
  • Prior messages in the conversation
  • Any documents or reference info you’ve pasted in
  • Invisible system instructions that shape how the model responds

The model takes all of that and says: Given what I see, what’s the most likely next?

A metaphor helps here:

  • When you walk into a coffee shop, you expect to be served coffee.
  • Walk into a brewery, and you expect beer.
  • You don’t expect either in a hardware store—but if you walk into a restaurant, you might anticipate the possibility of both.

We update our expectations based on the setting.
So do chatbots.

Your prompt creates the setting.
The bot adjusts its response to match.

You Don’t Interrupt the Pattern—You Become Part of It

You can shift a chatbot’s output not just by asking a question, but by changing the context around it.

The following content is accessible for members only, please sign in.

Blog Header Image 3 - Why Digital Skills Are the Baseline for Modern Employment

Why Digital Skills Are the Baseline for Modern Employment

by Career PathwaysCTIC NewsDigital Equity

There’s a quiet but decisive shift happening in today’s job market. Walk into any industry—healthcare, construction, retail, logistics, social work—and you’ll find digital skills not as a luxury or a bonus, but as a baseline.

Whereas only 44 percent of U.S. jobs required medium-high digital skill levels in 2002, 70 percent did by 2016 (Brookings Institution). According to the National Skills Coalition, today 92% of all job postings require some level of digital skill. This isn’t limited to tech jobs. It’s cashiers using point-of-sale systems, warehouse workers managing inventory with handhelds, or health aides inputting data on patient apps. Digital literacy isn’t a tech trend—it’s a workforce reality.

Digitalization is transforming the nation’s job roles both by expanding the digital content of hundreds of existing jobs and shifting the overall job mix toward more digitally intensive occupations.

Digital Skills = Higher Wages

“Workers with superior digital skills are more and more earning higher wages (all other things being equal) than similarly educated workers with fewer digital skills.”
—Digitalization and the American Workforce, pg 24

The data is clear. Workers qualified for jobs that require even one digital skill can earn an average of 23 percent more than in roles that require none. And making the jump to a job requiring at least three digital skills? That can lead to an average 45% increase in pay (National Skills Coalition).

In 2022, the World Bank piloted a market-aligned digital skills program designed to meet employer demand and build pathways to certification. Just three months after completion:

  • Employment rates rose by 18%
  • Participants’ average annual earnings increased by 94%
  • The unemployment rate among graduates dropped by 18.5%

This kind of return—both personal and economic—is hard to ignore.

Certification Builds Trust—and Access

Knowing how to use digital tools is important. Being able to prove it is game-changing.

Digital credentials have emerged as a powerful way to demonstrate your readiness—no matter your academic background. In fact, according to the Brookings Institution, digital skills boost wages across all education levels, even when comparing workers with the same degree.

Certifications make those skills visible. They signal that you’ve taken initiative, invested in yourself, and understand the tools employers rely on. That’s why more and more hiring managers are looking beyond résumés and degrees to verify practical, up-to-date skills.

In a study published in the Journal of Public Economics, earning an online certification increased the likelihood of employment by 25%.

For jobseekers facing barriers—such as limited work history, justice involvement, or career transitions—certification is a trust builder. It helps level the playing field, offering a clear way to communicate your value and step into better opportunities.

You don’t need a four-year degree to move forward in today’s economy. You need skills—and a way to show them.

Final Word: Digital Skills Are No Longer Optional

We’re past the era where digital literacy was “nice to have.” Today, it’s a gateway—one that unlocks better jobs, higher wages, and a foundation for long-term growth. Whether you’re changing industries, re-entering the workforce, or supporting people navigating life transitions, digital skills aren’t just relevant—they’re essential.

You don’t need to know it all.
You just need to take the next step.

We’re all moving through a digital transformation—together. And taking even a few steps toward building your digital skills can have a massive impact on your job prospects, confidence, and experience in the labor market.

Where to Start: CTIC Can Help

The Carroll Technology and Innovation Council (CTIC) is here to walk with you as you build your digital confidence. We offer:

  • Digital navigators who can guide you toward certifications that match your goals
  • Free and low-cost classes, coaching, and learning materials
  • Support exploring free online courses, from foundational computer use to more advanced tools
  • Opportunities to discuss your goals with other learners and local employers so you can see where your skills fit

Whether you’re looking to start small or go big, CTIC is here to help you grow—on your terms.

Connect with a digital navigator, email train@carrolltechcouncil.org or call 443-244-1262

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Dodging the AI Avalanche: AI Roundtable Perspectives

by CTIC News

Our first AI roundtable of 2025 surfaced essential conversations about the pace of AI, how to keep up, and what it means to integrate AI effectively. Participants expressed concerns, shared practical strategies, and explored tools that can help individuals and organizations stay informed and agile in an evolving AI landscape.

The Anxiety of Falling Behind

One of the biggest concerns raised was the feeling of “falling behind”—not just in AI adoption but in understanding how AI is being used by others. Participants worried about:

  • Other organizations using AI better and gaining a competitive edge.
  • Recognizing AI’s presence in their own workflows—how do you even know AI is being used?
  • Maintaining expertise in a field where AI is rapidly reshaping processes, making it harder to answer key questions with confidence.
  • Missed productivity and efficiency, particularly if AI isn’t being used effectively.

What Does Staying on Top of AI Look Like?

Rather than knowing everything happening in AI (an impossible feat), staying informed means developing an awareness—perhaps knowing “half of what’s happening” or at least feeling like you do. Tina shared a useful strategy: she maintains a dedicated mailbox for AI news, subscribing to Neuron and Super Human newsletters. She also connects regularly with those who are ahead of the curve, emphasizing that “it’s all there”—a reminder that the information is available if you know where to look.

Practical Steps for Simple AI Integration

The group highlighted a few ways to integrate AI without overwhelming yourself or your team:

  • Check your existing tools—many already have AI integrations that can enhance productivity.
  • Keep it simple—demonstrating efficiency with just one tool can be a significant win.
  • Develop a policy or procedure—establish a framework for AI’s role in your work to maintain clarity and preparedness.
  • Prepare your team—understand how your services are affected and anticipate when leadership might want to respond.

Looking Ahead: AI’s Role in Strategy and Reflection

As we wrapped up, we foreshadowed future discussions on AI’s continued evolution. A key takeaway: AI can help set the steps between where you are and where you want to go. Using AI not just as a tool for automation but as a means to prompt reflection and honesty can make all the difference in navigating its impact.

AI Tools to Explore

Participants shared useful tools to enhance workflows and AI adoption:

  • Miro – for collaborative brainstorming and visualization.
  • Fathom Notetaker – for AI-powered meeting summaries.
  • Trainual – documentation, delegation, onboarding, and training in one platform.
  • Scribe – for documenting and automating workflows.

This conversation is just the beginning. As AI continues to shape industries, our goal is to create a space for ongoing dialogue, reflection, and strategic action. Stay tuned for our next roundtable as we dive deeper into AI’s role in shaping the future of work.

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TikTok or Trust? America’s Crossroads on Influence and Security

by CTIC News

No platform has transformed culture and commerce quite like TikTok, but its future in the U.S. hangs in the balance. In the U.S. ban debate, questions of privacy and security threaten to redefine its role in American life—or remove it entirely.

Launched in 2016,  TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create, share, and discover short-form videos. TikTok has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating a global audience with its viral trends, creative challenges, and unparalleled ability to turn ordinary users into internet sensations. Its user-friendly design and advanced algorithm make content creation accessible to anyone, with every user having the potential to ‘go viral.’ TikTok’s algorithm uses machine learning (ML) and natural language generation (NLG) to recommend personalized content on users’ “For You” Pages (FYP).

As of 2023, TikTok boasts 1.04 billion monthly active users worldwide, with 170 million in the U.S. alone. American adults, on average, spend 58.4 minutes daily on the app, surpassing the time spent on YouTube and Netflix. This surge in usage has also led to significant economic contributions, particularly for small businesses.

This widespread appeal hasn’t just captivated users; it has also made TikTok a powerful driver of economic growth, especially for small businesses. In 2023, TikTok drove $15 billion in revenue for U.S. small businesses and contributed $24.2 billion to the U.S. GDP. Small businesses reported increased sales, with 88% experiencing higher revenue after promoting their products or services on the app. In Maryland, TikTok-supported SMBs contributed $390 million to our state’s GDP and supported 3,700 jobs.

TikTok’s meteoric rise has not come without scrutiny. At the center of the debate is its Chinese ownership under ByteDance, which has raised concerns about data privacy and potential governmental influence. Critics argue that the platform’s vast troves of user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, fueling fears of surveillance or propaganda. These concerns have sparked legislative efforts to restrict TikTok’s operations in the U.S.

In May 2023, Montana proposed a state ban on TikTok, citing its failure to remove dangerous content such as viral challenges encouraging risky behavior like cooking chicken in NyQuil or inducing unconsciousness through oxygen deprivation. The state also argued that TikTok’s operations posed a risk of espionage, potentially allowing the Chinese government to track public officials and journalists. However, a federal judge blocked the ban before it took effect, citing state overreach, First Amendment violations, and a lack of evidence to support claims of espionage or propaganda.

Earlier, in February 2023, the Biden administration banned TikTok on government devices. This was followed by an April 2024 bipartisan law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban by January 19, 2025.

ByteDance and TikTok have challenged the law, citing First Amendment violations. The Supreme Court heard arguments on January 10, 2025, with a decision expected soon as the ban is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

The outcome could result in either a forced sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations or a complete ban, potentially extended if a sale is underway. Additional legislative efforts, like the Extend TikTok Deadline Act introduced by Senator Ed Markey and supported by Congressman Ro Khanna, sought to extend the TikTok deadline by 270 days. Although the bill did not pass, President Biden may be able to grant a one-time 90-day extension.

The threat of a ban has already driven users to explore alternatives like RedNote, known in China as Xiaohongshu. In English, its name translates to ‘Little Red Book.’ The app recently hit No. 1 on Apple’s U.S. App Store, with masses of TikTok users creating accounts on and including hashtags such as #tiktokrefugee.

A ban on TikTok would undoubtedly disrupt small businesses that rely on the platform for marketing and alter the social media landscape where cultural trends thrive. However, the debate underscores a difficult balancing act between fostering economic and social benefits and addressing legitimate concerns about data privacy and national security. As the U.S. government deliberates, it faces the challenge of weighing these competing priorities to set a precedent for navigating innovation in a globalized world.