You have /5 articles remaining. Create a free account or login. A study reveals that college-bound students have concerns regarding how their peers are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). The study, released on Monday, indicates that these students heavily rely on AI technology due to the fear of being at a disadvantage without it. According to the report from Art & Science Group LLC, a market intelligence firm for higher education institutions, over 50% of the surveyed students expressed worries about how AI will impact their ability to achieve their college and career goals. Additionally, many students expressed competitive concerns regarding their peers' use of AI. Out of the 1, 300 students surveyed, 55% stated they were somewhat or strongly worried that other students' use of AI would negatively impact their chances of getting into their desired college. Similarly, nearly three out of five students believed that their peers' use of AI would affect their chances of securing scholarships and limit their career opportunities after college. David Strauss, the principal of Art & Science Group, noted that he was struck by the fact that students fear that others are using AI to gain an advantage and feel compelled to do the same.

He considered it noteworthy that students are questioning the ethics of AI and voicing concerns about the competitive landscape. The study revealed that 40% of students believe that AI tools contribute to misinformation, while an equal percentage consider the use of AI as a form of cheating. Additionally, 43% of students believe that using AI tools leads to a significant decline in critical thinking and creativity. Strauss commented that it is somewhat encouraging to see students raising these questions and expressing their concerns. The majority of incoming college students reported being familiar with AI. Almost half of the respondents (48%) described themselves as knowledgeable about AI, and over a quarter (26%) claimed to be "very" knowledgeable. Around 41% of students reported using AI for recreational purposes, while 35% stated that they use it for academic purposes such as studying, note-taking, writing essays, and learning languages. A small percentage (8%) of students utilized AI in their college search, leveraging the technology for tasks like writing college applications, financial aid, and scholarship essays. Strauss emphasized that the survey, conducted in February, emphasizes the need for universities to adapt their pedagogical and philosophical approach to AI. Institutions that address these concerns could potentially gain a competitive advantage.