Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of children’s education, offering quick explanations, writing assistance and access to information. But emerging evidence suggests that how students use AI may matter more than simply whether they use it.
A Hindustan Times report examining evidence from around 760,000 students highlights concerns about students relying on chatbots to complete academic work rather than using them as tools to support their own learning.
When AI does the thinking
The findings suggest that students who allow AI to produce their work for them can perform worse on assessments. When a chatbot effectively does the thinking and writing, students may miss opportunities to practise reasoning, problem-solving and communication.
This raises an important question for parents and schools: is technology helping children understand a subject, or simply helping them finish an assignment?
AI works best as a learning aid
Used thoughtfully, AI can provide explanations, generate practice questions, help students explore unfamiliar topics and offer feedback. The technology can therefore complement teaching when students remain actively involved in the learning process.
The distinction is particularly important for younger learners, who are still developing foundational skills and independent thinking.
Children need guidance, not just restrictions
Schools and parents may find it more useful to teach children how to use AI responsibly than simply banning it. Students can be encouraged to attempt a problem themselves before asking AI for help, check information against reliable sources and explain answers in their own words.
Teachers can also design assignments that require reasoning, discussion and personal reflection — areas where simply copying an AI-generated response offers little educational value.
AI is unlikely to disappear from classrooms. The challenge is ensuring that it remains a tool in a child’s learning journey rather than a replacement for learning itself.