Teens are using AI to help with school: What parents need to know

Summary

The video explores how artificial intelligence (A.I.) has become integral to teenagers' lives, with 7 out of 10 teens using A.I. tools for tasks like homework, language translation, and even when bored. Parents and teachers are often unaware of the extent of A.I. usage, with many parents not discussing it with their teens. While some schools have unclear policies, A.I. offers independence in learning, as shown by Savannah, a student who uses ChatGPT to catch up on physics. Experts stress the importance of parents engaging with A.I. and guiding their children to use it effectively and responsibly.

Takeaways

• 😀 7 out of 10 teens aged 13-18 use at least one type of generative AI tool for tasks such as homework, language translation, and searching.
• 😀 Most teens use AI tools when they're bored or to help with schoolwork, especially for subjects they find challenging.
• 😀 Parents and teachers are generally unaware of the extent to which teens use AI tools, creating a gap in understanding and guidance.
• 😀 30% of parents know their children are using AI tools, while the majority are unaware of how often they are used.
• 😀 Teens, like Savannah, use AI tools like ChatGPT to learn and understand difficult subjects when teachers are unavailable or when class material is unclear.
• 😀 A lack of teacher support or absence can lead teens to turn to AI as a learning tool outside the classroom.
• 😀 Many parents have not discussed AI with their teens, and 80% of parents say their school has not communicated AI policies.
• 😀 Some schools have unclear AI policies, with some teachers allowing it for study while others prohibit its use entirely.
• 😀 Experts suggest that parents should actively engage with their teens in learning how AI works and help them fact-check and formulate correct prompts.
• 😀 AI tools should be used creatively, and parents should encourage their teens to maintain an authentic voice while navigating the tools, without over-relying on them.

Q & A

What percentage of teens use at least one type of generative AI tool?

According to Common Sense Media, 7 out of 10 teens, or 70%, use at least one type of generative AI tool.

What are the common uses of AI among teens?

Teens commonly use AI for tasks such as homework, language translation, and sometimes when they're bored.

How quickly is AI evolving, according to the script?

AI is evolving rapidly, and it has outpaced the understanding of many parents and teachers, leaving young people to use AI tools with minimal guidance.

What gap is highlighted between parents and teens regarding AI?

The gap is that kids are more knowledgeable and use AI far more frequently than parents, with only 30% of parents aware their kids are using AI tools.

What is the response of a child welfare attorney regarding AI use?

The child welfare attorney expresses both love for the advancement of AI and the stress it causes, highlighting how it fits into a busy lifestyle.

How did Savannah use ChatGPT for learning?

Savannah used ChatGPT to catch up on physics topics she was struggling with, especially after her teacher left, and found it helpful in understanding the lessons.

Did Savannah’s parents know about her use of AI tools?

Savannah's parents were unaware of the tools she was using, indicating a lack of communication between parents and teens on AI usage.

What is the general stance of schools on AI use according to the teens?

Teens report varying opinions on AI in schools. Some teachers are open to its use for studying, while others strictly prohibit it.

What does Common Sense Media recommend for parents regarding AI?

Common Sense Media recommends that parents engage with their kids in learning about AI, fact-check responses, and help them create the right prompts without relying too much on AI.

What is Muna's advice regarding AI's role in creativity?

Muna advises that it is important for teens to maintain their authentic voice and creativity, using AI as a tool without over-relying on it, and to raise awareness about AI’s limitations.

What does Jim from Common Sense Media believe can be learned from social media’s impact on kids?

Jim believes that just as the rise of social media lacked sufficient guidance, we now have an opportunity to get ahead of the wave with AI, ensuring safer platforms for kids' use.

How does the script suggest parents and schools should communicate about AI?

The script emphasizes the need for better communication between parents and schools about AI policies. Parents should be informed, and schools need to clarify AI usage guidelines for students.