‘The new encyclopedia’: how some kids will use AI at school this year

Ludrick Cooper, an eighth-grade teacher from South Carolina, has experienced a shift in his perspective towards artificial intelligence in education. Initially skeptical, he now embraces AI as a transformative tool, likening it to the 'new encyclopedia' that shaped his childhood learning. Cooper reflects a broader trend among educators, as recent data reveals that 60% of teachers utilized AI tools during the 2024-2025 academic year, according to a study by the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup. In a noteworthy advancement, OpenAI recently introduced a 'study mode' for ChatGPT and formed a partnership with Instructure, the developer of a widely-used educational platform. This collaboration, backed by approximately $23 million from AI organizations and teachers' unions, aims to enhance AI training for over 400,000 K-12 educators. Advocates highlight AI's potential to create more engaging lessons and improve access to educational resources. However, there are significant concerns regarding the risks associated with AI in the classroom. Experts warn that the technology could facilitate cheating, exacerbate educational disparities, and negatively impact students' mental health. Sarah Howorth, an associate professor at the University of Maine, likened AI's introduction to fire—capable of great benefit but also hazardous if mismanaged. Instructure is working with OpenAI to develop the 'LLM-Enabled Assignment' tool, which allows educators to design interactive lessons tailored to individual student needs. This innovation enables teachers to create AI personas that can enrich classroom discussions by embodying historical figures or experts. Melissa Loble, Instructure’s chief academic officer, emphasized the changing dynamics of learning, noting that students are seeking more interactive and engaging educational experiences. AI’s integration into educational practices also raises questions about its impact on learning environments. Teachers like Kayla Jefferson from New York City are leveraging AI to foster collaboration among students, using platforms like Padlet to encourage peer engagement. However, Matthew Rascoff, vice provost for digital education at Stanford, argues for the development of AI tools that promote social learning, emphasizing the importance of collaborative skills in real-world contexts. Despite the potential advantages, integrating AI in schools is fraught with challenges. The New York City Department of Education initially banned ChatGPT due to concerns about academic integrity. This ban was later lifted as the department recognized the need to adapt to evolving educational technologies. Instructure asserts that its AI tools are designed to ensure accountability and prevent misuse in academic settings. The implications of AI for mental health are still being understood, with some tragic cases raising alarms. A mother has filed a lawsuit against Character.AI, claiming the platform contributed to her son's death. Instructure assures that its technology will be implemented within controlled settings, ensuring that discussions remain focused on educational content. Moreover, disparities in access to AI tools remain a critical issue, as underfunded school districts often lack the resources to implement these technologies effectively. Robin Lake from Arizona State University highlights the need for equitable access to ensure that students from disadvantaged backgrounds can benefit from AI advancements. While some educators express skepticism about AI’s role in fostering independent learning, others argue that familiarity with AI is essential for preparing students for future job markets. Lake emphasizes the importance of equipping students with skills relevant to an increasingly AI-driven economy. The integration of AI in education continues to ignite passionate debates about its future role and impact.