Congressional committee examines higher education's role in teaching students to use AI

June 4, 2026 - 08:00

Utah Representative Burgess Owens led a hearing in Washington on Wednesday, pressing a panel of education experts on the role higher education must play in teaching students to use artificial intelligence. The session, convened by a congressional committee, focused on whether universities are adapting quickly enough to a workforce increasingly shaped by automation and machine learning.

Owens questioned the experts on the potential for AI to both enhance learning and create new risks. He asked how institutions can ensure students graduate with practical skills in AI tools, rather than just theoretical knowledge. Several witnesses argued that colleges need to integrate AI literacy across all majors, not just computer science. They warned that failing to do so could leave graduates unprepared for jobs that will require collaboration with intelligent systems.

The hearing also touched on ethical concerns, including academic integrity and the risk of widening the digital divide. Some experts noted that while AI can personalize education, it may also deepen inequities if access to advanced tools is limited to wealthier institutions. Owens emphasized the need for a balanced approach, one that embraces innovation while protecting students from potential harms. The committee did not announce immediate legislative action but signaled that oversight of AI in education will remain a priority.