AI is making school easier, but your next homework assignment might not actually be written by you. That’s when the danger begins. From homework help to quick answers, AI is often a click away. While it can be helpful, many teachers and students believe relying on AI too much may be doing more harm than good.
Teachers have already seen the impact on students first hand. When I asked a teacher how she felt when her students used AI on the work she assigned she said they use it “Frequently” and that
“It makes me feel rage in my heart,” said Kathleen Nichols, teacher of earth and space science.
According to Nichols, while some students use AI appropriately, others depend on it far too much. Nichols thinks the danger takes place when AI replaces thinking instead of supporting it.
“I feel like it could be harmful if it’s keeping them from actually thinking on their own,” said Kathleen Nichols teacher of earth and space science.
However she also acknowledges that AI can be helpful when used correctly, such as making study guides. Because of this, she believes the effects of AI depend on how the student uses it. She also mentions that many students don’t understand the risks. She explained that many students see AI as a shortcut rather than a learning tool.
Students themselves notice this problem as well. Nicholas Bleken, a student, said he rarely uses AI for homework, but when he does, it’s usually because resources are hard to find. He believes many students rely on AI too quickly.
“They don’t think for themselves, and it’s the first thing they reach for,” Nicholas Bleken (‘27) said.
He also added that students often accept AI answers as correct without checking them, which means they don’t actually learn anything. Both Nichols and Bleken agree that balance is key. Nichols advises students to use it as a tool not a crutch. Bleken shared similar advice, saying AI should not be the first option, but something used only for checking other resources.
“it’s not really a great resource because it just kind of, like, diminishes your learning,” Elijah Garcia- Carbajal (‘27) said.
As AI continues to grow, its presence in schools isn’t going away.
“When they have to rely on it and when they feel anxiety when they can’t use it.” Nichols said, as a warning.