What happened
technologyreview.com spoke to kids aged 10 to 18 about artificial intelligence, expecting to hear about cheating or inspiring uses. Instead, they found a nuanced view, with many expressing indifference or even opposition to AI. While most admitted to using AI a little, often introduced by parents or schools, they weren't actively seeking it out like other popular devices.
Young People Aren't Rushing to Embrace AI
When adults talk about artificial intelligence, there’s often a sense of urgency, as if it’s the next big thing everyone is clamoring for. But reporting from technologyreview.com suggests that for kids aged 10 to 18, AI isn't the 'must-have' item many might think. Instead of excitement, many met questions about AI with words like 'bruh' and 'meh.' Some were so uninterested or against it, they didn’t want to talk about it at all. They aren't begging for AI the way they do for popular phones or social media accounts.
This indifference is a practical point for homeowners and locals. It means that the next generation of locals entering the workforce might not automatically see AI as a central tool for how they find work, manage tasks, or even perform their services. Homeowners shouldn't assume that younger locals will be fluent in AI tools or eager to use them for every aspect of a job. It suggests a more grounded, less hyped view of AI from those who are growing up with it, which could shape how local services evolve.
AI Still Makes Sloppy Work, Say Those Who Use It
Despite the buzz, many young people who do use AI find it limited or even counterproductive for certain tasks. One teen uses AI for programming outside of school, but notes that AI has led to teachers requiring more in-class writing, which they feel hinders their writing process. Another testing AI for game development found it makes 'sloppy code' and is 'bad at blending mechanics into something cohesive,' often requiring more time to correct than to write the code themselves. This practical feedback from users highlights AI's current shortcomings.
For locals doing skilled work, this means AI is not yet a replacement for expertise, craft, or critical thinking. While AI might help with very basic, repetitive administrative tasks — like drafting a simple invoice or a preliminary description of a service — it falls short when precision, creativity, or nuanced problem-solving is needed. Homeowners should understand that relying solely on AI for complex tasks in local services could lead to poor quality results, and that the value of a local's skill, judgment, and personal touch remains high because AI often makes 'sloppy' work.
Real Worries Go Beyond Just Losing a Job
While many adults worry about AI taking jobs, the reporting shows kids have different concerns. They are less worried about job displacement and more concerned about AI's broader impact on society. One 17-year-old said, 'I’m afraid it’s going to be the end of creativity and critical thinking.' This suggests a deeper concern for how AI might change the nature of human thought and interaction, rather than just economic disruption.
This perspective offers a chance for both homeowners and locals to think beyond immediate job impacts. For locals, it means understanding that while AI might change how some tasks are done, the value of human creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving in their work is something they want to protect and maintain. For homeowners, it encourages looking for locals who bring these human qualities to their work, recognizing that these aspects are not easily replicated by machines. The article suggests that instead of avoiding AI, we should learn to use it responsibly, like teaching someone to drive safely, rather than just keeping them off the road entirely.
The practical takeaway
For homeowners, don't assume AI is a magic bullet or that every local will be keen to use it. Value the human skill and judgment locals bring, especially since AI can still produce 'sloppy' results. For locals, explore AI for simple tasks, but remember your expertise, creativity, and critical thinking are your most valuable assets, as young people are already seeing AI's limits in these areas.
Questions readers ask
Should I expect locals to be using AI for their work?
The reporting suggests young people use AI for specific tasks, but often find it crude or prefer to do things themselves. So, while some might use it to help with basic things, don't expect it to replace their skill or judgment for core work.
Is AI something I should be concerned about as a homeowner?
The article points out that while AI has dangers, the solution is to learn how to use it safely, like teaching someone to drive, rather than avoiding it entirely. It's about being aware and using good judgment when AI might be involved in any service.
Will AI make it harder for locals to find work?
The source material doesn't directly address job finding. It notes that young people are less worried about AI taking their jobs than about its impact on society. This suggests that for now, the direct impact on finding local work isn't their primary concern mentioned in this report.
Hiring someone local, or looking for local work?
GigNGo is a no-lead-fee local services marketplace — homeowners post what they need, locals nearby respond, and the locals keep everything they earn. It is run by the same team that publishes Kickback Services.
See how GigNGo works