CSA’s Newsletter from August 6th – August 21st
| What are people saying about post-secondary education this week? CSA offers members an exclusive look into the sector! Access each article by clicking the hyper-linked title. Where access may be restricted, acquire using your college library database. |
| AI in universities: the case against August 17th — University Affairs, Ping Lam Ip & Andrea DeKeseredy |
| As AI becomes more common in colleges and universities, questions are growing about how much students should rely on it. Using AI to complete assignments, write code or summarize research may save time, but it can also take away opportunities to build important skills and think critically. The article argues that higher education should be about more than efficiency. Students need to engage with course material, understand their work and develop their own ideas, not simply use AI to get things done faster. |
| AI in Universities: the case in favour August 17th – University Affairs, Joël Blit |
| Argues that AI could make college and university education more personalized and accessible. Instead of replacing professors, AI could handle routine tasks like practice questions, explanations and feedback, giving instructors more time for mentorship, discussion and deeper learning. AI could also help students learn at their own pace and identify areas where they need support. As workplaces increasingly use AI, students will need to learn how to use these tools responsibly while developing skills like critical thinking, judgment, problem-solving and communication. |
| OSAP changes will affect many students this year. Here’s what to know August 7th, 2026 — The Globe and Mail, Omotayo Ayorinde |
| Changes to OSAP took effect August 1, shifting more financial aid from grants to loans. The maximum share of provincial funding available as grants has dropped from 85% to 25%, meaning some students could take on about $3,500 more in loans each year. At the same time, Ontario has ended its seven-year tuition freeze, allowing tuition to rise by up to 2% annually. Students can also explore bursaries, scholarships, work-study programs and other provincial financial aid. |
| ‘The trades are having a real moment’: As perceptions change, more young workers are choosing this path August 12th, 2026 — The Globe and Mail, Robert Gerlsbeck |
| Skilled trades are becoming a more popular career choice among young Canadians, as concerns about job security, AI and the cost of university change how people think about careers. Apprenticeships are at record levels, and many trades offer paid training, strong wages and opportunities for advancement. However, getting started can be challenging, with apprenticeships often requiring several years of training, lower starting wages and physically demanding work. For some, the appeal is building practical skills and seeing the direct impact of their work. |
| Visa uncertainty turns away strong students, survey finds August 19th, 2026 — PIE News, Polly Nash |
| Visa uncertainty and rising costs are influencing where international students choose to study, with many considering more countries or staying closer to home. A recent survey found that 41% of education agents believe lower visa acceptance rates are discouraging strong, qualified students from applying. New Zealand is gaining popularity because of its reputation for safety and stability, while Canada has improved but still ranks behind several other destinations. Students are also increasingly looking for affordable education, post-study work opportunities and strong academic and mental health support. |
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