A majority (70%) of Generation Z representatives claim to have high knowledge of AI, yet only 36% are aware of the possibility of “hallucinations” generated by artificial intelligence. Their primary source of information about this technology is social media (55%), while only 14% of respondents indicated educational institutions. The study also reveals that 64% of this generation holds a positive attitude toward Generative AI (GenAI), yet 43% worry that it could contribute to rising unemployment rates.
Generation Z’s Perspective on GenAI
In an EY study, Gen Z respondents shared their thoughts on GenAI. The most commonly cited advantages included time savings for repetitive tasks (58%), analyzing large datasets (53%), and minimizing human errors in critical processes (41%). The greatest concerns related to AI were the potential reduction in employment and a decline in human creativity, both mentioned by 43% of respondents.
“Gen Z’s expectations regarding artificial intelligence are clear. They recognize its immense potential to enhance their efficiency, yet they remain mindful of its challenges. Importantly, their opinions are shaped by personal experiences, setting them apart from older generations in the workforce. For HR departments, this signals the need for adaptation. Currently, efforts are focused on raising general awareness of AI among employees. However, with Gen Z already possessing significant knowledge, organizations will need to implement a broader range of initiatives,” says Katarzyna Ellis, Partner at EY Poland and leader of the People Consulting team.
Generation Z: A Gap Between Perceived and Actual Knowledge
Nearly one in five (18%) Gen Z representatives rated their knowledge of AI as “very high,” 52% as “high,” 27% as “not very high,” and only 3% admitted to knowing nothing about artificial intelligence. A significant majority of respondents identified areas where AI could be utilized: 95% pointed to real-time translation, 91% to pattern detection in large datasets, and 87% to image editing in specific styles. However, their awareness of AI-related risks is significantly lower. Only 29% knew that AI-generated content restrictions could be bypassed, just 36% were aware that GenAI systems can “hallucinate,” and slightly more than half (53%) knew whether AI algorithm creators must obtain permission to use personal data for training purposes.
When asked about how they educate themselves on artificial intelligence, 52% of Gen Z respondents stated that they frequently read, listen to, or watch AI-related content, but without formal school support or prior structured education. Their main sources of information include social media (55%), articles (35%), AI tools themselves (28%), and family and friends (22%). The least common sources were official training (14%), school education (14%), and workplace training (12%).
“The study shows a significant gap between Gen Z’s perceived and actual knowledge. One reason for this is the lack of structured learning, as they primarily rely on social media as their source of information. This highlights the need to introduce AI education at an early age. The growing importance of artificial intelligence also brings increased risks, such as highly sophisticated deepfake technology. Low awareness in this area directly translates into significant threats to digital resilience, whether in personal or professional contexts,” says Piotr Ciepiela, Partner at EY and Leader of Cybersecurity in the EMEIA region.
What Are the Future Prospects?
Gen Z maintains an optimistic outlook on artificial intelligence—64% see AI as an opportunity rather than a threat to humanity. The majority (60%) of respondents trust individuals and companies developing GenAI, and 52% believe that AI should be integrated into school curricula. Interestingly, 71% think AI development should proceed with minimal regulatory control.
Given this positive attitude, it is unsurprising that most Gen Z representatives foresee an increased use of AI in the future. Regarding personal use, 51% predict they will use AI more frequently, while 58% expect its increased application in their professional work. However, respondents are less certain about AI’s impact on their own lives. More than half (56%) agree that AI tools help them learn faster, 55% say AI has improved their academic performance, and 54% report increased productivity at work due to AI. On the other hand, only 45% believe that proficiency in AI enhances career success, 44% feel optimistic about AI’s impact on their careers, and 43% would like to work for a company that encourages GenAI usage.
“Gen Z is the first generation raised in a fully digital world, now entering the workforce. Their positive approach to AI, combined with relatively high knowledge of the technology, represents significant potential for companies. However, it is important to note that their experience primarily involves using publicly available AI tools. Meanwhile, an increasing number of companies are implementing proprietary systems and security procedures. This underscores the need to refine and modernize current training standards to fully leverage the potential that Gen Z offers,” concludes Wioletta Marciniak-Mierzwa, Senior Manager in the People Consulting team at EY Poland.
About the Study
The EY study—How can we upskill Gen Z as fast as we train AI?—was conducted in 2024 among 5,218 respondents aged 17-27 from 15 countries across five continents. The results were supplemented with extensive desk research and interviews with AI experts in educational and professional contexts.
