How GenAI Became a Disruptive Force in CS Higher Education – Communications of the ACM

Impact of GenAI on Computer Science Education

For years, the need for change in computer science education has been evident, with industry leaders calling for broader skill sets and the emergence of tools to evaluate learning beyond syntax and correctness.

Companies have also increasingly hired developers without formal computer science degrees, further highlighting the need for reform.

However, sustained demand for graduates and traditional approaches have postponed meaningful change until the arrival of GenAI, which has made reform unavoidable.

Timeline of Missed Signals

A timeline of missed signals leading up to the arrival of GenAI reveals key phases in the evolution of computer science education, including the call for broader skill sets and the emergence of new evaluation tools.

Recommendations for the Future

The future of higher education in computer science requires consideration of these changes and the impact of GenAI on the field.

Now, GenAI has arrived, and the long-resisted change has become unavoidable.

Author's summary: GenAI disrupts CS education.

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Communications of the ACM Communications of the ACM — 2025-11-03

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