Since the introduction of AI tools such as ChatGPT, learning in schools and universities has changed profoundly. The debate about whether these technologies enrich or harm education is becoming increasingly important. A recent study from Sweden shows how AI tools could particularly help students who often struggle with concentration problems in everyday school life.
What a Swedish study found about the use of AI by students
Researchers at Lund University have for the first time investigated how adolescents‘ cognitive executive functions (EF) relate to the use and perceived usefulness of generative AI chatbots for school tasks. This study is the first of its kind to take individual differences into account and analyze in depth the influence of AI tools on students.
To capture the relationships across different age groups, the scientists conducted two separate studies. The first study surveyed 385 younger adolescents with an average age of 14. The second study included 359 older students with an average age of 17. The results showed that about 14.8% of younger and 52.6% of older students used generative AI tools for school-related tasks. In both age groups, ChatGPT emerged as the preferred tool.
What is notable is that students who had greater challenges in executive functions found AI tools to be particularly helpful. This applied especially to completing homework. Interestingly, however, the first study showed no significant link between academic performance and the use or perceived usefulness of AI.
How much AI can learning tolerate?
The Swedish study reflects how AI can provide useful support in the school environment and where potential limitations lie. AI tools can be a valuable addition to many students, especially when it comes to concentration difficulties. But in order to integrate the technology effectively, teachers and education policymakers must observe and weigh things up carefully.
The researchers call for further studies to gain a deeper understanding of when and how AI should be optimally used in education. Possible gender differences in the use of AI tools should also be examined. These could have an impact on equal opportunities in the education system.
It will be interesting to see how the role of AI in the classroom will evolve. Apple’s announcement to implement Gemini in its products could have further implications for student behavior.
