How AI is affecting students in high school
Today’s generation of students is accustomed to using technology to learn, socialize and make their lives easier. In recent years, artificial intelligence has become a hot topic among educators. Specifically, tools like ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence powered Chatbot introduced to the world in 2022, have some teachers and parents intrigued, others concerned, and many unsure what to think.
“The effects of AI on education are widespread, and AI certainly has the power to solve problems and innovate teaching and learning,” says Elizabeth Meier of the Barrington Huntington Learning Center. “However, there are understandable worries about artificial intelligence and the negative implications it could have on high school students in and outside of the classroom. It’s important for parents to be aware of its positives and its negatives and open the lines of communication with their high school students about how to use AI appropriately.”
She urges parents to talk with their students about the various ways that AI affects students:
1.) Artificial intelligence personalizes learning. There are many learning apps that use algorithms to analyze student data and provide individualized exercises and recommendations just for them — curriculum meant to help students improve and grow. Teachers might use AI-powered learning platforms in the classroom to understand how their students learn best and offer customized lessons and activities. Your student might already be starting to see adaptive machine learning platforms in their standardized assessments, such as the new digital SAT. These adjust a test’s content and pace based on individual students’ progress.
2.) AI makes learning more interactive. Artificial intelligence in the high school classroom is evidenced by interactive quizzes, simulations, and other experiences. Augmented and virtual reality is becoming more widespread, and it’s making its way into the high school classroom. Picture anatomy teachers having students use their smartphones to study three-dimensional anatomy models that offer animations of muscles and bones, or art teachers having their students visit a virtual reality museum of fine art to view famous paintings and sculptures up close.
3.) AI can aid a student in their research process. High school and college students often have to do research for papers and projects, which is one of the biggest advantages of AI for students. Its algorithms can search vast amounts of data and quickly point students to the right place to find the data they need to complete their research. Some AI apps are not always up to date so using the information as actual research would not be beneficial.
4.) Not all will use AI responsibly. The benefits of artificial intelligence are many, but as with any technological advancement, there are risks and downsides as well. Some students might see AI as a “cheat code” of sorts and a way to avoid doing original work or fully embracing the learning process. Address the issue of ethics and AI with your student regularly. Acknowledge the ways that students could use AI inappropriately, like having ChatGPT write their essays, and the severe punishment (plagiarism) for doing so. Most schools do have policies in place for AI submitted work and software that can check if AI was used so your student should be aware of the consequences if they submit something that is not their own work. The more you bring these issues out into the open, the more your student will realize that you and their teachers are aware of them.
There’s no question that artificial intelligence has the potential to enrich your student’s education. Teach them that AI can be a valuable tool that enhances their learning, but it should not be a replacement for them engaging in that learning — just as AI will never replace the role of their teachers.
“There are valid concerns about AI in education, particularly students relying on it too much to ‘think’ and ‘do’ for them,” says Meier. “Parents have the opportunity to talk with their students about how AI can benefit them, how it can harm their educational experience, and why academic integrity and learning are always the most important goal.”
About Huntington:
Huntington Learning Center is the nation’s leading tutoring and test prep provider, offering customized programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington’s programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible.
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