An extensive survey conducted by Quinnipiac University shows mixed feelings about the use of AI on college campuses.
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Americans generally believe it is important for universities to incorporate artificial intelligence into their curriculum, but remain skeptical about whether it is possible without threatening the overall quality of students’ education, a new Quinnipiac University survey finds.
Almost 75% of Americans think it is important to teach college students how to use AI, but only 42% think students are likely to use AI for learning. Meanwhile, 47% think college students are likely to use AI to avoid learning.
And while you might think that older generations, those less familiar with AI, would be more cynical about new technology, the study found the opposite to be true.
“Who is most skeptical about the benefits of AI to support learning? By age, they are the generation most likely to be familiar with how AI works in the classroom,” said Tim Malloy, a polling analyst at Quinnipiac University.
Approximately 58% of 18-34 year olds believe students will use AI to avoid learning. This is about 25 percentage points higher than respondents aged 65 and older (35%).
The survey was conducted from April 9th to 13th, 2026, and received responses from 1,210 adults. Of these participants, 24% identified as Republicans, 26% as Democrats, 37% as independents, and 13% as other.
Other topics discussed include the value of a university degree, recognition of university performance, recognition of three-year degrees, and the value of admitting international students.
