Generative artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT are easily automating what young workers can do, such as software development, greatly limiting the employment of young workers, three Stanford economists said in the paper.
Researchers analyzed data on tens of thousands of companies and millions of workers and presented the results.
The researchers analyzed the impact of Generative AI on the labor market in detail based on the records of the salary agency ADP.
The ADP’s record is much more comprehensive than the household survey used by the Ministry of Labor for monthly employment reporting, as it includes detailed information such as the age and occupation of workers.
Researchers cited software developers, receptionists, translators, and customer service representatives as jobs that AI can replace.
Researchers have confirmed that employment among young workers has decreased as employment has decreased overall in these occupational groups since 2022, when AI began to be used in earnest.
For example, the number of software developers aged 22 to 25 fell nearly 20% last month compared to the end of 2022, when the number peaked. This happened amid a significant increase in the number of students with computer degrees in recent years.
In comparison, the number of workers between the ages of 26 and 30 remained little changed, and the number of older workers continued to increase.
In the field of customer service, which does not require a university degree, such as a computer degree, employment of young workers has also decreased.
On the other hand, jobs continued for senior software developers who are difficult to automate by AI. This is because they have the technology to collaborate with people who are not developers.
Meanwhile, AI has been shown to have a great effect on improving the work efficiency of some workers. Examples include helping medical personnel diagnose faster and more accurately.
Employment growth was higher in the sector where AI helps workers.
Business automation has the effect of reducing costs, but it does not create anything new.
Researcher Eric Brynjolfson, a professor at Stanford University, emphasized that expanding workers’ abilities and developing new jobs can promote employment growth for companies.
JENNIFER KIM
US ASIA JOURNAL
