Generative AI in education

Research into children’s and parents’ views of artificial intelligence

54% of children who use generative AI tools use them for homework or schoolwork.

This research explores generative AI in education. It examines the views of parents and children, and offers suggestions for government, schools, industry and parents to limit the risks and promote benefits.

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Image a a child with AI-related graphics overlayed.

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Why is this research important?

The recent popularity of generative AI tools like ChatGPT means more people, including children, are using them. Additionally, more and more stories report that pupils use these tools to complete homework or that teachers use them to create lessons.

As artificial intelligence continues to develop, so will people’s relationships with it. This will undoubtedly impact and shape education, presenting both opportunities and challenges to children, parents and schools.

So, it’s with this in mind that we explore the current use of AI in education and families’ views of the technology’s future.

AI in education: Key findings

Children who express a positive view of generative AI.

Children who actively engage with generative AI tools.

Parents who say their child’s school has not informed them about plans to use generative AI tools to teach students.

Schools that have not spoken to students about using AI in relation to schoolwork or homework.

Generative AI users (children) who use the tools for schoolwork or homework.

Vulnerable children who use ChatGPT to complete schoolwork or homework.

Suggestions for minimising risk

There is still need for more research into the impacts of AI technologies on children and families. However, it’s clear that schools need more support, guidance and training now.

In this report, we set out a series of suggestions for government, industry, schools and parents to minimise the risks and promote the benefits of AI in education. These suggestions include:

Guidance and design

Government

Based on our survey findings, we suggest that guidance from the Department for Education (DfE) should include the following.

Clear and ongoing communication with children and parents about generative AI.
Information about safe and responsible AI use in the curriculum.
Ensuring digital inclusion and equitable access to this technology.
Supporting staff with decisions about use of generative AI.

Industry

Additionally, technology companies shape the future of digital interactions. As such, safety by design is a vital part of creating tools that children might access.

Advice for parents

Parents

For parents and carers, our advice remains the same as with other areas of online safety.

Conversations about how your children use AI is key.
Exploring AI tools with your child is a great way to improve your own understanding of how they use AI and how the tools work.
Use resources from organisations like Internet Matters to increase your knowledge of the latest tech that your child might use.

Resources to support parents and carers

Digital inclusion

Equitable access to AI in education

Our research consistently shows that children on free school meals have less access to tech and data than their peers. With generative AI’s continued impact on young people’s lives, it’s vital that we address the important issue of digital access.

The DfE should take care to prioritise resources and training to schools in the areas of highest need to ensure equity of access.

Read the full report

Resources to support parents

Using artificial intelligence safely

How to use AI tools

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