A cheating scandal at Brown University highlights the impact of AI on education. Economics professor Roberto Serrano's take-home exams led to unusually high scores, prompting concerns about AI-assisted cheating. The final exam, held in person, saw scores drop significantly, suggesting AI use. This incident raises questions about AI's role in education and the need for critical thinking skills. It also points to challenges employers may face in assessing graduates' abilities. The situation emphasizes the importance of using AI responsibly to maintain essential cognitive skills.

Rebecca (Oettinger) Feder | Website | LinkedIn

📚 Sources:
https://pod.wave.co/podcast/the-artificial-intelligence-show-37600926-b625-47d1-8432-ba6bc3d04913/225-gpt-56-chatgpt-work-enterprise-agents-ai-2040-apple-sues-openai

IBM is tripling its entry-level hiring in the U.S., contrasting with tech giants like Microsoft and Meta, which are reducing staff due to AI. Chief Human Resources Officer Nickle LaMoreaux emphasizes the need for human roles despite automation. CEO Arvind Krishna notes AI enhances capacity rather than replacing humans. Market research shows many firms regret AI-driven layoffs, with companies like the Commonwealth Bank of Australia reversing job cuts. LaMoreaux warns against reducing entry-level hiring, stressing the importance of skills like communication and leadership. IBM's strategy will be tested as it reports its second-quarter financial results.

 Rebecca (Oettinger) Feder | Website | LinkedIn   

📚 Sources:

• https://aimagazine.com/news/ibm-triples-entry-level-hiring-despite-ai-layoff-trends

Egon Zehnder stresses the importance of succession planning to ensure leadership continuity and operational stability. With the potential for unexpected CEO exits, strategic succession plans help avoid disruptions and maintain shareholder confidence. The process involves identifying and developing future leaders at all levels, supported by regular assessments, tailored development, and clear career paths. Boards play a crucial role in overseeing proactive succession planning, emphasizing agility and adaptability. Best practices include early planning, board engagement, and fostering diversity. External recruitment and consultants can provide fresh perspectives and unbiased assessments. This comprehensive approach ensures smooth leadership transitions and aligns with long-term strategic goals.

 Rebecca (Oettinger) Feder | Website | LinkedIn   

📚 Sources:

• https://www.egonzehnder.com/what-we-do/ceo-successions/insights/succession-planning-best-practices

In 2026, Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) are crucial in navigating the human-machine era. Artificial intelligence has yet to meet productivity expectations, complicating workforce reductions and rehiring. Cultural dissonance arises as performance demands increase without added support, leading to disengagement. AI's emotional and cognitive impacts require CHROs to address psychological issues and prevent "AI workslop." The hiring process faces challenges with AI-inflated credentials and screening, necessitating a blend of high-touch and AI methods. Corporate espionage threats demand behavioral strategies and ethics promotion. Career paths shift with AI, highlighting the need for upskilling and process experts. Digital doppelgangers raise compensation questions, prompting CHROs to reward contributions to enterprise intelligence. Addressing these trends ensures organizational resilience and success.

Rebecca (Oettinger) Feder | Website | LinkedIn   

Sources:
CHRO Guide: 9 Future of Work Trends for 2026 

Recent research from Wharton examines "cognitive surrender," where people uncritically accept AI's answers, replacing their own reasoning. Steven Shaw and Gideon Nave conducted experiments with over 1,300 participants, introducing the Tri-System Theory, which adds AI as a third mode of thinking. The study found that trust in AI can lead to following incorrect advice, while analytical individuals are more likely to challenge it. Cognitive surrender is risky in fields like healthcare and law, where critical thinking is essential. The study suggests AI interfaces should encourage verification and reflection, and organizational training should help recognize when to question AI.

Rebecca (Oettinger) Feder | Website | LinkedIn

📚 Sources:

• https://hrexecutive.com/wharton-researchers-explain-how-cognitive-surrender-takes-hold-when-employees-lean-on-ai/