Smart Ways Students Are Harnessing AI
By Susanna Ray
In the dynamic world of education, AI is becoming an invaluable tool for students at every level. Take James Evans, an honors student pursuing a business degree, who often turns to Microsoft Copilot for simplified explanations of complex topics. "AI can rephrase confusing content, making it more digestible," says Evans. "It's incredibly useful, especially when you're stuck on a paragraph that just doesn't make sense until it's explained differently."
Generative AI is revolutionizing learning, offering everything from personalized tutoring to custom study guides. But, like any tool, its effectiveness lies in understanding its capabilities and limitations. We spoke to students, parents, and educators who are leveraging AI to enhance learning while navigating potential pitfalls.
Younger Learners: Building Foundations with AI
For younger students, AI-powered tools are making a significant impact. Aren Uzun, a 12-year-old in California, uses Reading Coach to improve his reading and speaking skills, which has led to better grades. His mother, Cigdem Patlak Uzun, highlights the confidence Aren has gained, noting how the tool provides a non-judgmental space for practice.
Similarly, Ava Gerlach, a 10-year-old from Florida, is getting acquainted with AI through Minecraft Education. "AI is a human-made technology that helps solve real-world problems," she explains, already seeing the potential for AI to assist with her studies, including math and research.
High School Years: Developing Critical Thinking
As students advance to high school, AI becomes a tool for honing skills like information literacy and source validation. Isabelle Armstrong, a 16-year-old from Australia, uses Search Coach to refine her queries, yielding more accurate and reliable information. This precision not only aids her research but also improves her essay writing by helping her stay concise and on point.
Kylie Kingdon, Isabelle’s history teacher, uses AI in her lessons to demonstrate effective prompting, which helps students understand what makes a good AI-generated response. "Learning to use AI effectively is a skill that will serve students well throughout their education," Kingdon asserts.
Higher Education: Managing Complexities
For college students, AI is an essential companion in managing the demands of higher education. James Evans, who is about to start a master’s degree in business analytics, uses AI to distill complex subjects, brainstorm essay ideas, and create study guides. "AI can help you grasp difficult concepts and even manage life skills, like meal planning," Evans says.
Matt Hall, a professor in Texas, sees AI as a basic life skill. "Using AI is critical," he advises. "If you're not familiar with it, you'll be at a disadvantage."
Tips for Using AI in Learning
Learn the Basics First: Before relying on AI, understand the foundational skills in any subject. This ensures that you can assess the accuracy of AI's outputs.
Don’t Rely on AI Alone: Use AI to assist in learning, but don’t let it replace the process of developing your skills. AI might not always be available, especially during exams.
Trust but Verify: Always double-check AI-generated information. Use tools that provide sources and citations to ensure accuracy.
Embrace Continuous Learning: Technology evolves rapidly, and so should your approach to using AI. What works today might change tomorrow, so stay adaptable.
Collaborate Effectively: When working in groups, discuss how AI will be used. Ensure everyone is comfortable with its role in the project.
As AI continues to evolve, so too will its role in education. Students like Evans are clear that the key is not just to use AI but to use it wisely, ensuring it enhances learning rather than detracting from it.
