Aligning Student Perceptions and Labor Market Expectations to Supplement Educator Knowledge in the Age of AI
Presenter: Uma Devi Attreya
Faculty Sponsor: Hossein Pishro-Nik
School: UMass Amherst
Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
Session: Poster Session 6, 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM, 163, C2
ABSTRACT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the modern workforce through automation, changing job qualifications and increasing demand for uniquely human skills such as communication and problem-solving. As undergraduate students prepare to enter an AI-oriented labor market, it is important to understand their perceptions of AI and preparedness for this change to support educational and professional development. Despite AI’s dominance across professional environments, there is limited research on how college students perceive the impact of AI on their future jobs and their preparedness in navigating this changing workplace. Thus, this study examines college students’ perceptions of AI in relation to their AI literacy and career readiness. Using an online survey distributed to undergraduate students, the study will assess self-reported dimensions such as perceived preparedness for the workforce, impact of AI on their future jobs, and AI literacy. By analyzing patterns across these dimensions, the study aims to understand how students view AI’s role in shaping career opportunities and required skills, illuminating potential gaps in student preparedness. These findings will contribute to current discussions on educational strategies to bolster AI literacy and improve career readiness among undergraduate students to equip them for this AI-integrated, evolving workforce.