AI in Classrooms: Destructive or Beneficial?

By: Madelynn Erickson and Malia Moore

This year, many teachers and students at Mishawaka High School are debating the

fundamental question of AI in the school setting; Is AI a beneficial educational tool or a danger to authentic learning?

For some students and teachers , AI can be used as a helpful resource in learning and

teaching new materials. Contributing support outside of the class room. However, this powerful tool can be used negatively when not taking into consideration the lack of accurate responses that AI spits out. Ultimately proposing the question of whether or not AI should belong in the classroom setting.

Physics and Earth and Space Science teacher Amy Foley stated, “I think it can

be very helpful. I do. It is not helpful when students choose it to plainly get an answer and copy it down and turn it in. But if they're struggling with something and need an extra explanation, something that's different from what I'm explaining, it can be really helpful that way, as long as they understand that it does still make mistakes.”

Conversely, many students and staff argue that AI is pushing students to build reliance on AI, destroying authentic learning, dissolving dedication and perseverance, and weakening fundamental skills needed throughout human life. A survey of MHS students and faculty showed that 76.5% of students believe AI usage stifles the learning process while nearly 83% of faculty agreed with students.

Leo Smith, a junior at Mishawaka High School argued, “it's not really a helpful tool when students are just having it do their work, because students are literally losing the ability to do that work at all” On the other hand, some students argue that when used in the correct and ethical way, AI can be beneficial and actually helpful within the classroom. Highlighting the perception that AI can be used as a personal learning tool. Rather than just being harmful within learning environments.

Dakoda Shannon, a senior at Mishawaka High School, said, “So I think, if used in the right way, it can help you understand how to do things.”

Recognizing AI’s risks and benefits is an important concept to ensure the creation of

stable and firm boundaries when it comes to life both inside and outside the classroom. Making good habits, learning processes, and comprehension for students today.

English and Speech teacher Dee Dee Gerber added,“I think, in classrooms, it has to be clear how students can use it and how they can't on every single assignment. So that students know what the limitations are, but they also learn what ethical use of AI is. I think that's really important for them, both as a person, but also when they go out into their careers.”

Ultimately the debate of whether or not AI is more destructive or beneficial within the

classroom setting reflects the intentions the student has behind using. While concern for it is valid, students and teachers recognize that AI will not be going away. Leaving the overarching question proposed to students: how will you use it?