> I cant imagine learning calculus / linear algebra on my own in high school.

I don't think they necessarily expect students to have that from high school, because the class mentioned, EECS 127, lists three college classes as prerequisites:

* Math 53 - Multivariable Calculus

* Math 54 - Linear Algebra & Differential Equations

* CS 70 - Discrete Mathematics and Probability Theory

Absolutely: missing in-person learning due to COVID. Less attention span due to growing up in a distracting environment. A lower bar to entry due to removal of standardized testing and indirectly from No Child Left Behind. Changes in parent or student attitudes. It could be any number of things, and it's lazy to just say "with AI usage" as something that has increased at the same time.