Ai Revolution Hits Us Schools: Over 70 Students Rely On Machines For Assignments

Over 70% of US students are relying on artificial intelligence (AI) for schoolwork, with seven out of ten secondary school pupils admitting to using large language models like ChatGPT. The use of AI-powered chatbots has become increasingly common among American youth, sparking concerns about academic integrity and potential errors.

A survey conducted by a leading education think tank found more than 300 students from diverse backgrounds and schools across the US shared their experiences with using AI in studies. Students often choose between following school rules and leveraging AI-powered tools to complete assignments efficiently.

Tiffany Zhu, an 11th-grade student at The Harker School in San Jose, California, shared her experience: “I realised that a lot of people around me were using large language models, and more specifically ChatGPT, for many school assignments. It’s like everyone has this secret tool to get ahead, but it also creates anxiety about not being able to do the same.”

The widespread use of AI-powered tools in education is attributed to their ability to provide instant feedback, suggestions, and even entire essays, making them an attractive option for students struggling with time management or research skills. However, educators argue that this reliance on AI can lead to a lack of critical thinking and creativity.

Policymakers are exploring ways to balance technology benefits with maintaining academic integrity. Implementing stricter guidelines and consequences for students caught cheating is one suggestion, while others propose incorporating more AI-related topics into curricula to foster a deeper understanding of these tools.

The rise of AI in education raises questions about the future job market. With increasingly sophisticated language models capable of producing human-like text, concerns are growing that many entry-level positions may require minimal human intelligence. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has already noted an uptick in jobs requiring expertise in natural language processing and machine learning.

As AI-powered tools continue to grow in American schools, educators and policymakers must address these issues and ensure students develop skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing job market.