By Ava Swinton ‘27
Imagine having a tool that can answer any question in seconds, yet using it the wrong way could hurt your learning. Students should be able to use AI for learning, but only if used in a responsible way because it can be both beneficial and risky.
To begin with, AI can make students become overly dependent, because they may use it as a shortcut rather than developing skills. Studies show that when students use AI to complete assignments without first learning the material, they skip the essential steps of analyzing the material, weakening their understanding (British Council). Relying more and more on AI may reduce the teacher-to-student interaction, taking away the learning aspect and not allowing students to actually do the work. The students that are starting to depend on AI for answers, can really affect and hinder their ability to think critically and solve problems.
On the other hand, AI also has its benefits. For instance, it helps students learn clearer and understand the concepts. Apps like Quizlet that use AI let you generate study sets such as flash cards, etc., reducing stress and saving more time. AI platforms can show students where they need growth by giving them feedback. According to Education Illinois, AI helps to enhance curriculum effectiveness and spot areas that need improvement. Moreover, AI brainstorming helps students creativity and problem-solving on assignments. Learners can be creative while using it, allowing them to express their creativity in many ways and be more engaged.
Unfortunately, AI can use copyrighted or copy content without students knowing, increasing the risk of plagiarism. When students submit AI-generated work as their own, not only are there consequences but they are missing the important values such as fairness and honesty (Weforum). It is unfair to the students who actually do their work responsibly. It prevents the students from learning how to create their own work, missing out on gaining important skills such as writing, researching, and thinking creatively.
AI has its pros and cons, but it also is a tool and the effect it has on education depends on how students are using it. The benefits from AI without risking academic dishonesty comes with students that should use it responsibly. With using it the right way we can value personal growth, honesty, and trust.
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