Generation Z is increasingly integrating artificial intelligence into their routines, yet a significant portion of this demographic expresses growing concerns regarding its implications for learning, creativity, and future employment prospects.
According to a Gallup survey, 51% of Gen Z participants report using generative AI on a weekly basis. Alarmingly, 80% believe that AI may hinder their future learning capabilities.
Trey Johnson, a senior at the University of Utah, notes that AI has become commonplace among his classmates. “I’d say nearly all of my friends use it; it’s a huge majority,” says Johnson, who is studying geology and finance. He acknowledges AI as a beneficial educational aid but cautions that it can impede the learning process if over-relied upon. “It helps me learn, but many people use it merely to complete assignments without engaging with the material,” he explains.
Another University of Utah senior, Melanny Montejo, employs AI to transform her notes into interactive quizzes for exam preparation. “I input my notes, and it generates quizzes,” Montejo shares. However, she observes that the technology can foster a tendency to cut corners. “It’s tempting to take shortcuts, and I know some people use it to cheat,” she adds.
The Gallup survey indicates an increasing number of Gen Z respondents are concerned that AI might impair their ability to think critically and generate original ideas. Montejo recognizes the validity of these worries. “Those concerns are legitimate, especially regarding critical thinking,” she states. Some of her peers opt out of using AI altogether, citing environmental issues as one reason. Montejo, however, aims to utilize AI thoughtfully. “I do use it, but I try to be intentional about it, particularly for studying purposes,” she explains.
Brandon Amacher, director of the Emerging Tech Policy Program at Utah Valley University, posits that while Gen Z is likely the most adept generation at using AI, they may also face the brunt of its rapid advancement. “They’re arguably the best at utilizing it compared to other generations, but it’s also having a profound impact on them,” says Amacher. “There’s significant concern, especially regarding how the world will change in the next five years.”
This sense of uncertainty also permeates the job market, particularly for college students as they choose their majors and prepare for entry-level roles. Amacher notes, “There’s a lot of discussion among Gen Z individuals in college about whether their chosen fields will remain viable, or if employers will still need entry-level workers in those areas.”
Gallup's survey found that almost half of the employed Gen Z respondents believe the risks associated with AI in the workplace surpass its advantages. Additionally, around 70% stated they have greater trust in work completed without AI intervention than in AI-assisted efforts.
Johnson believes that despite their concerns, young people will continue to embrace AI while scrutinizing its place in their lives. “Absolutely,” he remarks. “I think we’ll keep using it, and I hope skepticism continues to grow because it’s crucial to question everything.”
Amacher worries that some companies may hastily replace entry-level jobs with AI, potentially limiting opportunities for young workers to gain the necessary experience to become future management leaders.
