Americans overwhelmingly believe college students should be taught how to use artificial intelligence, but remain skeptical about how the technology is being applied in higher education.
A new Quinnipiac University poll found 74% of Americans say it is important for colleges and universities to teach students how to use AI, including 42% who say it is “very important.”
At the same time, the survey highlights widespread concern about how AI is being used in academic settings. A majority of respondents, 59%, oppose colleges using AI tools to screen student applications, while 52% oppose using AI to tutor students.
Public opinion is also divided on how students are using the technology. The poll found 47% of Americans believe college students are more likely to use AI to avoid learning, compared to 42% who think it helps them learn. Younger adults were especially skeptical, with 58% of those ages 18 to 34 saying AI is more likely to be used to avoid learning.
Beyond AI, the survey shows continued confidence in higher education overall. Among those with a college degree, 78% said their education was worth the cost, citing better job opportunities, higher earning potential, and the quality of education as key factors.
The poll also found strong support for international students studying in the United States, with 76% of Americans saying it is a good thing, often pointing to the benefits of diverse perspectives and talent contributions.
Researchers surveyed 1,210 adults nationwide between April 9 and April 13, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.
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