In a recent move, Duolingo made the decision to let go of around 10% of its workforce, stating that their positions had become redundant.
Following the introduction of ChatGPT, artificial intelligence (AI) has garnered considerable focus, sparking apprehension among individuals regarding its impact on job security. While some experts advocate for AI as a tool to enhance human roles, allowing for a shift toward more meaningful tasks, others argue that it might entirely replace human positions in various industries. Over the past year, multiple research endeavors were undertaken to assess AI’s influence on employment. While certain studies indicated a transformation in job dynamics, others foresaw potential job displacement attributed to advancements in this technology.
Duolingo Inc, recognized for its language-learning software, has made headlines for deploying generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create content. In a notable decision, the company has declared a reduction of 10 percent in its contracted workforce, signaling a shift towards AI tools assuming roles traditionally handled by human employees.
A spokesperson representing Duolingo has attributed the decreased requirement for tasks previously carried out by terminated contractors partly to the implementation of AI. This development has sparked conversations and raised concerns among employee collectives and unions, eliciting worries about potential job reductions. A World Economic Forum report from April of the prior year underscored the expected “significant disruption in the labor market” due to AI in the forthcoming five years.
It’s essential to note that Duolingo isn’t the sole entity announcing job cuts related to AI adoption. Chegg Inc, specializing in online homework assistance, disclosed a 4 percent downsizing of its workforce in June 2023, emphasizing the integration of AI into tutoring services. Furthermore, Arvind Krishna, the CEO of International Business Machines Corp, mentioned in May of the previous year the company’s anticipation of a hiring pause for roles potentially replaceable by AI in the coming years. There’s a particular focus on automating approximately 30 percent of back-office positions, such as human resources, within a five-year span.