How the Z Generation is Mastering AI: A Global EY Study

EY, in collaboration with TeachAI and Microsoft, conducted a global survey on how Generation Z understands and uses AI. The study involved 5,218 participants from 16 countries, aged 17 to 27.

Published 2 min read

The development of artificial intelligence — and especially generative AI — has forced educators and businesses to compete to ensure AI literacy among the generation that is likely to be most affected by this technology, given their life stage: Generation Z.

Born roughly between 1997 and 2007, Generation Z is the current generation rapidly entering the workforce. This life stage implies that members of Generation Z will have the longest duration of work and life with this new technology, and it will undoubtedly influence and shape how they live, work, and play for decades to come.

Key Takeaways

Zoomers have basic knowledge of AI, but critical thinking and risk assessment are underdeveloped.

They best understand where AI is applied, but struggle more with how to use it effectively and how to identify its errors, such as hallucinations.

Self-assessment of knowledge is often underestimated — many turned out to be more competent than they thought.

Using AI at work raises fewer concerns.

The survey involved 5,218 respondents, evenly selected from 16 countries across five regions: the Middle East, Africa, and India; the Asia-Pacific region; Europe; Latin America; and North America. The age of respondents at the time of the survey ranged from 17 to 27 years, with segmentation designed to reflect age differences within Generation Z.

Main Challenge

Education and job preparation in the field of AI are not keeping pace with technological development. Learning systems do not foster critical thinking and understanding of the risks associated with using AI among Generation Z.

Recommendations

Do not rely on self-assessment — it is important to objectively verify skills.

Synchronize AI learning approaches in schools, universities, and companies.

The government, business, and education sectors should collaboratively build a clear and effective model for AI literacy.

The full study is available here.