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AI in Student Learning: A Powerful Tool When Used Wisely
Technology is constantly evolving, and artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the biggest game-changers in education today. Just as the internet transformed access to information, AI is now reshaping how students learn, complete assignments, and even think about knowledge itself. While AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and automated essay generators may feel brand new, they are part of a long history of technological advancements in education—from calculators to search engines and spellcheckers. It seems like AI is here to stay, so an important question is how students can use it in a way that genuinely supports their growth.
The Benefits of AI in Learning
Used effectively, AI can be a powerful educational ally. Here are some of the ways it can support students:
Instant Feedback and Explanation
Imagine a student struggling with understanding a scientific concept such as the structure and function of the circulatory system. Instead of waiting for the next lesson, they could ask an AI tool for help. Given the right instructions, an AI tool could provide instant explanations to help them make sense of things.
Brainstorming and Structuring Ideas
For students facing writer’s block, AI can generate topic ideas, suggest structures for essays, or provide different perspectives on a subject. This can be especially useful in subjects like English or History, where forming strong arguments is key.
Accessibility and Individualised Support
Students with additional learning needs, such as dyslexia or ADHD, may find AI tools helpful. Text-to-speech functions, summarisation tools, and personalised explanations can help bridge learning gaps and promote confidence in their abilities.
The Drawbacks of AI in Learning
Despite its advantages, AI presents some risks if used incorrectly.
Over-Reliance on AI and the Negative Impact on Exams
Some students may start depending on AI to complete their work rather than using it to support their learning. For example, a student might paste an essay question into an AI generator, copy the response, and submit it without fully understanding the content. This will prevent skills development and lead to underperformance in assessments.
In an extreme case, a student might have used an AI tool to produce answers to homeworks, tests and mock exams. This would create a distorted picture of their performance and tutors would not be able to support them effectively or accurately predict grades.
Misinformation and Inaccuracy
AI tools are not perfect—they sometimes generate incorrect or misleading information. A student relying on AI for research might unknowingly include false information in their work, leading to lower grades.
Loss of Critical Thinking Skills
If students lean too much on AI for answers, they risk missing out on the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that come from grappling with difficult concepts. Education isn’t just about finding the right answers; it’s about learning how to think.
Case Study 1: AI Used Inappropriately
Alex had a homework due on climate change. Struggling with motivation, they asked an AI chatbot to generate a full response, copied it directly, and submitted it as their own. The essay was well-structured, but when their tutor asked follow-up questions, Alex couldn’t explain key arguments or defend the points made in the piece. When it came to an exam, Alex did not have the knowledge to be able to answer questions on this topic resulting in a lower grade.
Case Study 2: AI Used Effectively
Emma also had a homework due on climate change. Instead of using AI to write it for her, she used it to brainstorm ideas, refine her thinking and get feedback on the structure of her answer. She then wrote her essay in her own words, using AI as an educational ally rather than a shortcut. The result was a well-structured piece that reflected her understanding and hard work. Emma knew how to use AI to support her learning in the right way and was able to increase her final grade as a result.
What Parents/Carers Can Do Next
As a parent/carer, you can play an important role in guiding your child’s use of AI in their learning. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Learn More About AI Tools: Learn about the AI platforms your child might be using, such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, or AI-driven study apps. Understanding their functions and limitations will help you guide your child effectively.
- Start a Conversation: Talk to your child about how they use AI. Ask questions like, “How do you think AI helps your learning?” and “What are the risks of relying on it too much?”
- Set Healthy Boundaries: Encourage your child to use AI as a support rather than a shortcut. Discuss when it’s appropriate to use AI for brainstorming and when they need to think independently.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: If your child uses AI-generated responses, ask them to fact-check the information and explain it in their own words. This reinforces deeper learning and ensures accuracy.
- Work with Tutors: If you feel a bit lost with all of this, or have concerns, then reach out to your child’s tutors for a bit of help and guidance.
What Students Can Do Next
Students have the power to use AI in ways that genuinely support their learning. Here’s some advicee you can share with your children:
- Use AI as a Tutor, Not a Cheat Sheet: Instead of copying AI-generated answers, use it to clarify concepts, check your understanding, or refine your writing.
- Think Before You Paste: If you get an AI-generated response, don’t just submit it—analyze it, fact-check it, and put it in your own words.
- Challenge Yourself: If an AI tool gives you an answer, ask yourself, “Why is this the right answer?” and “How would I explain this to someone else?”
- Develop Your Own Voice: AI can help with ideas, but your writing and thinking should always be your own. Your tutors want to see your perspective, not a machine’s.
- Stay Curious: AI is just one tool in your learning toolkit. Combine it with books, discussions, and hands-on practice to develop well-rounded knowledge and skills.
- Start Conversations About AI: Talk to your parents/carers and tutors about how you’re using AI. Ask for their thoughts and discuss appropriate ways to add AI into your learning.
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Approach to AI
AI is neither a magic solution nor an academic villain—it’s a tool. Like all tools, its value depends on how it is used. Encouraging students to use AI as a learning aid rather than a replacement for thinking ensures that they develop essential skills while still benefiting from technological advancements. By striking this balance, we can help students harness the power of AI in ways that truly enhance their education.