RAND survey shows students trapped between AI concerns and grade pressure

Short summary

A RAND survey of 1,214 students found 67% believe AI harms critical thinking, yet usage climbed from 48% to 62% in seven months. The article argues students aren't confused — they're trapped in a system that rewards output over process, making AI non-use a competitive disadvantage. Faculty surveys echo the concern, with 90% fearing diminished critical thinking. The piece questions whether education ever truly valued independent thought.

• •67% of students say AI harms critical thinking, yet usage rose from 48% to 62% in seven months
• •Students are rationally trapped: the system rewards output, not process
• •95% of faculty fear AI increases student overreliance on technology

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