top of page

Increase in Computing Enrolments Resulting from AI Popularity

Lanon Wee

Record numbers of school graduates are enrolling in computing courses, per the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Results from this year's application figures indicated that 18-year-olds were more motivated to study computing due to the growth of digital technology and AI, according to Clare Marchant, chief executive of UCAS. There was an increase of almost 10% in applications to pursue computing studies in relation to 2022. Nevertheless, it was seventh among all the fields of study in higher education. Close to 95,000 students sent in applications for programs in computer and AI related topics, while the number of applicants for business and management courses was approximately double that. Over 125,000 submitted requests to study design, arts, and performing arts. Subjects associated with medicine, social sciences, biological and sports sciences, and engineering and technology were all in higher demand than computing. UCAS has reported that annual applications for computer-related courses have been on a constant rise since 2019. A 16% increase in applications for software engineering was recorded this year compared to the prior year, and an additional 11% of applicants chose computer science. A modest uptick of 2% and 4%, respectively, was observed in the number of students applying for computer games and animation, as well as artificial intelligence (AI). Ms Marchant suggested that the augmented attention on computing classes might be due, in some part, to the current discussion surrounding tech and AI. She mentioned that, due to external shifts, there has been an increased requirement for certain academic programs, such as economics post 2008 and medicine and nursing in response to Covid-19. Chris Derrick, the deputy headteacher at Kelvinside Academy in Glasgow, noted that all applicants to computing courses are "digital natives" possessing the expertise which has been built up over time through the everyday use of strong technology. He stated that programming knowledge is easily obtainable through YouTube and ChatGPT. He stated that students have the opportunity to delve into their interests and study at their own rate. If they don't know the answer, they can search on Google or YouTube for it. As of late, the primary focus of the public dialogue has been on which occupations will be replaced by Artificial Intelligence; however, there is also a growing number of possible jobs involving AI, data science, programming and computer technologies. A rise in applications was observed from UK 18-year-olds of the most disadvantaged backgrounds, according to UCAS. Despite a slight increase, computing is still a male-dominated field with only 18% of application for computer related studies coming from female students, up from 17% in 2022 and 16% in 2021. The UK 18-year-old applicant figure of 319,500 was the second highest on record, though slightly less than the previous year. Rashik Parmar, the CEO of British Computer Society (BCS), commented that it is not unexpected to find the huge interest in computing degrees in the UK, considering how teens already understand that AI is something that will irrevocably modify the world. Vanessa Wilson, hailing from the University Alliance - an association of British universities - opined that the increased public fascination with AI lately could be the factor behind the rise in applicants. She posited that the heightened interest in computing could be attributed to the growing recognition of the role of technologies like AI and the students' determination to hone in on abilities they perceive as having longevity.

0 comments

Comentarios


We help clients solve critical operational, business & financial issues using innovative technologies such as Web3 & Blockchain.

Address:

20 CECIL STREET, #05-03, PLUS, Singapore 049705

2023 Intric Technologies Pte Ltd

bottom of page