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This year, more than ever, Watson said universities and colleges are grappling with the unethical murkiness of AI — from environmental impacts to data centers to intellectual theft concerns and the potential effect on jobs — while also trying to stay relevant in the current marketplace.
Young adults in the U.S. are increasingly wary of AI and its impacts, according to a recent Pew Research poll. At the same time, 91% of employers think it is very or somewhat important that college graduates gain skills in college to use AI, according to a recent AAC&U report.
Meanwhile, institutions are working to attract students amid a shrinking pool of traditionally college-aged Americans and widespread concerns about the cost and value of a college degree. ...
While he acknowledges student concerns about the co-major, he repeatedly emphasized that it is optional. ...
Bryan Alexander, senior scholar at Georgetown University, said AI is the most divisive technology in higher education. He said the backlash at Suffolk against a major, rather than AI in general, feels “groundbreaking” and like something to watch. ...
See the full story here; https://www.masslive.com/education/2026/08/higher-education-is-trying-to-stay-relevant-with-ai-some-students-dont-want-it.html