Teens are using AI in ways that parents and schools might not fully grasp, highlighting the need for clearer guidance.
The rise of generative AI, like ChatGPT, has sparked some debate in the education world. While students are quickly adopting these tools, primarily to help with homework, many parents remain in the dark. A recent report from Common Sense Media highlights this growing gap and stresses the need for better communication about AI’s role in education and the future.
The report found that an overwhelming 70 percent of teenagers have used at least one generative AI tool, with AI-powered search engines and chatbots leading the pack. Surprisingly, this trend cuts across all groups, with teens of various ages, genders, and racial backgrounds showing equal interest. However, a concerning 40 percent of teens admit to using AI for schoolwork, often without their teachers knowing.
There’s a clear gap in parental awareness. Only 37 percent of parents whose teens use AI are even aware of it, despite 87 percent of parents having heard at least “a little” about generative AI. This points to a breakdown in communication between parents and their kids.
Schools are also struggling to keep up. About 37 percent of teens report their schools don’t have clear policies on AI, and 42 percent say their teachers mostly prohibit AI use. This leaves students navigating AI on their own without much guidance.
The report also highlights racial disparities in AI experiences. Black teens are utilizing AI in unique ways, such as seeking companionship (26 percent) and using it for coding assistance (17 percent). But, they’re twice as likely as their peers to have their work wrongly flagged as AI-generated, which raises concerns about bias in AI detection software.
Despite these challenges, the report points to the benefits of open dialogue. Teens who have participated in classroom discussions about AI tend to have a more well-rounded understanding of its pros and cons. Notably, 55 percent of students who engaged in these discussions report checking other sources to verify the accuracy of AI-generated content, compared to only 43 percent of those who haven’t had these class activities. These teens are also more likely to consider how AI might shape their future careers, showing the positive impact of informed conversations about the technology.
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- Parents, Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Teen’s Use of AI
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