AI is a resource, not a crutch. High schools, colleges, and even some post-graduate classes have begun to encourage students to use  artificial intelligence in their education, as there can be good approaches to infusing it in learning. Yet, this is a slippery slope, as AI can be detrimental to students when it becomes more than just a tool. 

 

AI is a great source of help for publishing and gaining a deeper understanding. It can help students fix grammatical errors, reword, and structure sentences better; ultimately it can be used as an editing tool, reviewing students' work before submission. Secondly, it gives step by step explanations of math problems and scientific topics that help students gain an in -depth understanding of what they are learning from the teacher-led instruction. When used properly, AI is a benefit to improving education and expanding the classroom environment. 

 

However, AI becomes dangerous when it is doing the work for students - copying and pasting questions and answers, writing essays, solving math problems, and much more. Students do not gain any understanding of the topic, rather it is just helping them submit the work faster. Sure, efficiency is helpful, but they are doing a run-around, avoiding any form of critical thinking. When compiled, if there was zero processing or critical thinking prior to an assessment day, students will find  themselves so under prepared, resulting in poor grades and lack of confidence in their abilities. 

 

Beyond a bad grade, it does not prepare them for college and professional schooling. They have developed little time management skills, poor study habits, and zero skills to complete and work through problems or papers. So while it might be the easy way out and be tempting, it will damage you in the future. So, while I do not believe AI should be banned, I do believe it should be used carefully.