The popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in education has dramatically increased among students and teachers in the United States over the past year, according to a new national survey.
Conducted from May 7 to 15 by Impact Research for the Walton Family Foundation—the philanthropic organization established by Walmart founder Sam Walton—the survey reveals a significant rise in familiarity and usage of AI tools like ChatGPT in educational settings.
Compared to last year, the percentage of teachers who are familiar with ChatGPT soared from 55% to 79%. Among K-12 students, familiarity jumped from 37% to an impressive 75%. Approximately 75% of students, teachers, and parents reported using AI chatbots personally, at school, or at work, with about half of each group using them at least once a week.
The survey highlights a growing belief among educators, parents, and students that AI has a positive impact on education and will be crucial for future student success. Over 80% of respondents in each group think technology in education has had a beneficial effect. While there are concerns about the rapid advancement of AI and potential job displacement, many see its integration into education as a net positive.
“While negative views of AI have crept up over the last year, students, teachers, and parents feel very positive about it in general,” the researchers noted. “On balance, they see positive uses for the technology in school, especially if they have used it themselves.”
Despite the widespread use of AI chatbots, the survey found that most K-12 teachers, parents, and students feel their schools are not adequately addressing AI’s role in education. Many reported that their schools lack clear policies on AI usage, are not providing desired teacher training, and are not meeting the demands of students interested in pursuing careers that will require AI proficiency.
The Walton Family Foundation emphasized the importance of including key stakeholders in the conversation about AI in education. “There is much discourse about the rise and prevalence of AI in education and beyond. These debates often lack the perspectives of parents, students, and teachers,” the foundation stated.
The findings suggest a need for schools to develop comprehensive strategies to integrate AI into curricula effectively, prepare educators through proper training, and guide students toward future opportunities in an AI-influenced job market.
Reference(s):
AI chatbot popularity surges among U.S. students, teachers: survey
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