Utilizing AI in Education: Balancing Benefits and Concerns

AI tools are increasingly being used by students to assist with their studies, with both advantages and disadvantages arising from their integration into the educational process. While these tools offer numerous benefits, such as speed, efficiency, and access to vast amounts of information, they also raise concerns about their impact on learning and the potential for over-reliance.

Students’ Perspectives

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• Students use AI tools to assist with their studies, particularly in subjects like chemistry and mathematics.
• AI helps students manage their workload by streamlining research and providing quick access to answers.
• Some students express concerns about the potential negative effects of AI, including its impact on creativity and cognitive abilities.

Sherab Lhaden, a student from Motithang Higher Secondary School (MHSS), cited the advantages of AI tools in her studies, stating that they significantly speed up her work and help her understand complex concepts. She also acknowledged the downside of relying too heavily on AI, noting that it can hinder her ability to think critically and memorize information.

Concerns about Over-Reliance

Sherab Lhaden expressed concern that over-reliance on AI tools can hinder critical thinking and independent learning. She stated, “If you rely on it too much, it hinders your ability to memorise and think critically, especially during exams.”
Tshering Tshogyel Yangzom, a student from LZMSS, shared similar concerns, stating that AI can hinder creativity and originality if overused. She emphasized the importance of using AI responsibly and within moderation.

Teachers’ Perspectives

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1. Tshering Lham, vice principal of LZMSS, noted that monitoring AI usage in schools is challenging and requires robust policy development.
2. Tshering Lham also expressed concerns that students might use AI to complete assignments undetected, particularly given teachers’ heavy workloads and large class sizes.
3. Dorji Tenzin, a geography teacher at MHSS, emphasized the need for teachers to educate students on using AI responsibly without becoming dependent on it.

Dorji Tenzin noted that while AI can be a useful tool for refinement, over-reliance on AI-generated content can hinder critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He stated, “For instance, words like ‘tailoring’ are rarely used by students in assignments.”

A Need for Guidance and Tools

The schools do not provide guidance on the ethical use of AI, nor do they have tools to detect AI-generated assignments. Tshering Lham highlighted the need for schools to develop policies and strategies for ethical AI integration in education. Ugyen Lodroe emphasized the importance of students being aware of the risks associated with AI-generated work and taking responsibility for their actions.

Recommendations

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• Develop policies and strategies for ethical AI integration in education.
• Provide students with guidance on the responsible use of AI tools.
• Implement tools to detect AI-generated assignments.

As AI tools become more embedded in education, it is essential for students and teachers to navigate their use responsibly, ensuring that AI enhances learning without replacing critical thinking and creativity.

Conclusion

The integration of AI tools into the educational process is a complex issue, requiring a nuanced approach. By acknowledging the benefits and concerns associated with AI, students, teachers, and educators can work together to ensure that AI is used in a way that supports learning, rather than hindering it.