Artificial intelligence (AI) is an ever-evolving technology that is now accessible to anyone with a computer or smartphone. It is transforming everyday life, reshaping careers, and rapidly changing the workplace. From predictive analytics to intelligent automation, AI’s growing influence across industries is redefining how professionals operate and solve problems.
Rather than fearing this evolution, information science professionals have every reason to embrace it.
AI’s growing presence in modern work environments is not about replacing talent. Rather, it’s about enhancing it. For information science professionals, AI is a tool that strengthens the foundation of their work by redefining and expanding on the four core pillars of the discipline—UX design, data science, interactive technology, and networks.
If you are interested in the field of information science, learning to leverage evolving technologies like AI in your work will help your career evolve alongside them.
The New Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace
AI is already embedded in daily workflows across various industries. It automates repetitive tasks, supports complex decision-making, and enhances customer service through tools like chatbots and intelligent assistants. Surveys show that 20 to 40 percent of employees are now using AI tools at work, with programmers and data analysts leading the way.
The adoption of AI use at work is accelerating over a relatively brief period. In 2023, only 33 percent of organizations reported using generative AI in business functions. By 2024, that number jumped to 71 percent.
The adaptive and diverse capabilities of artificial intelligence lend themselves to its use across a wide range of sectors. In finance, AI is used to detect fraud and personalize services. In healthcare, AI supports diagnostics and predictive care. In marketing, AI helps analyze engagement trends, segment audiences, and optimize campaign performance in real time.
With these changing tides comes a growing demand for professionals who understand both the technical and human facets of innovation.
Pros and Cons of AI in the Workplace
AI brings clear benefits, including increased productivity, greater efficiency, personalized experiences, and enhanced applications of decision science. However, just as with any innovation, AI’s benefits are accompanied by challenges.
AI can introduce algorithmic bias, raise concerns around data privacy, and contribute to job displacement in specific sectors.
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Algorithmic bias: AI systems learn from data. If that data reflects historical inequalities or prejudices, the AI can replicate and even amplify those biases in its outcomes. |
Data privacy concerns: AI often relies on massive datasets, which can include sensitive personal information. Without proper safeguards, this data can be misused, leaked, or used for surveillance without consent. |
Job displacement: As AI automates routine or repetitive tasks, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing or customer service, some roles may be significantly reduced, leading to workforce disruption. |
These risks underscore the importance of ethical design and human oversight. The future belongs to those who can guide AI with both skill and responsibility.
Opportunity, Not Obsolescence: Using AI for Work in Information & Computer Science
For tech professionals, AI is not a threat; it is a catalyst for growth. Some firms project that AI will save the average tech worker considerable time each month, freeing them up for deeper problem-solving and innovation. In information science, each domain stands to benefit from AI.
AI in UX Design
AI systems must be explainable and user-friendly. Therefore, UX professionals play a crucial role in designing intuitive interfaces for AI that foster adoption and establish trust.
AI in Data Science
Yes, AI enhances data science workflows by automating processes such as model selection and data preprocessing. Still, information scientists remain necessary as they apply critical thinking, ensuring ethical data use, and maintaining analytical integrity.
AI in Interactive Technology
AI powers new interactive systems, including chatbots, AR, and VR experiences. Information science expertise ensures these systems are designed to serve human needs effectively, not just to entertain or distract.
AI in Networks & Crowds
AI helps analyze social behavior and optimize crowd-sourced solutions. Information scientists apply network theory and crowd models to make these platforms meaningful, actionable, and human-centered.
Will Computer Science Be Replaced by AI?
Despite the benefits of leveraging and utilizing AI in the tech sphere, concerns regarding the potential replacement of computer and information scientists remain prevalent.
Will AI replace information or computer scientists? The short answer is no.
While AI is a powerful tool, it lacks the creativity, contextual understanding, and ethical judgment that human professionals bring to the table. It also continues to face severe limitations, such as algorithmic bias, a lack of general intelligence, and challenges with interpretability. These limitations require human insight to address.
What will change is the nature of work. As AI automates manual tasks, hybrid careers are expected to rise. Professionals with a foundation in computer and information science, combined with proficiency in AI, will be in high demand.
The Future Is Integrated: Launching Your Career in AI and Computer Science
AI is not a stand-alone skill set. It is part of a growing ecosystem of interdisciplinary roles. The job market is expanding not only for engineers and analysts but also for ethical technologists—AI product managers and specialists who understand both technology and its impact on people.
Success in this landscape depends on adaptability and continuous learning, particularly as AI advances the way computer science is taught and practiced. The most valuable professionals will be those who can evolve in tandem with the tools they use.
Advance Your AI Expertise with Cornell Bowers CIS’ MPS in Information Science Degree
The MPS in Information Science from Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science prepares students to lead in an AI-integrated future. With a flexible, one-year structure and customizable focus areas—such as UX, data science, interactive technology, and networks, crowds, and markets—the MPS program combines technical rigor with practical application.
Students also benefit from completing a hands-on MPS project, where they can apply AI tools to real-world challenges. This experience equips graduates to confidently meet the demands of today’s tech-driven workplace.
Learn more about how Cornell Bowers CIS prepares you for in-demand careers where technology, human behavior, and AI-driven innovation intersect. Download our guide—From Classroom to Career: Cornell Bowers CIS’s Information Science Degree.