College English majors can't read critically

A recent study tested college English majors and their inability to distinguish between figurative and literal language, and the inability to process prose even with access to their mobile phone (emphasis mine). Without the ability to parse dense subject matter, is there a chance for us to be serious, critical thinkers? I see this as in a similar vein of AI taking the place of critical thinking. Humans are offloading the underlying structure of knowledge for a fast buck.

I do wonder if the results would be comparable to students attending coastal universities.

Originally came across this study in the post College English majors can’t read at Adorable and Harmless.

See also Concentrated effort is required to foster critical thinking and The point of education is expanding your known world and self.