What do students and teachers think of GenAI?

Since the advent of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT, there has been significant excitement and concern within educational circles. While initial enthusiasm was shared by both teachers and students, recent research indicates a divergence in how these groups perceive and utilize these technologies. This blog post explores the current state of perceptions of ChatGPT and other generative AI models among students and teachers, based on data from recent studies.

Initial Enthusiasm and Growing Divide

When ChatGPT was first introduced, both teachers and students saw its potential to revolutionize learning and teaching. This sentiment was largely driven by the novelty and capabilities of AI technologies. However, as these tools became more integrated into educational practices, distinct differences emerged in their adoption and perception.

According to the State of AI in Education report by Quizlet, a substantial number of students in higher education have adopted AI technologies. The report highlights that 82% of college students have used AI technologies, compared to 58% of high school students. This indicates a higher rate of AI adoption in HigherEd, where institutions are more likely to have established codes of conduct regarding AI use. 

Conversely, the adoption rate among teachers is slightly lower, with two-thirds of high school and college teachers utilizing AI in their educational practices. However, their optimism about the long-term impact of AI on education has diminished. Only 38% of teachers believe that AI will have a positive impact, down from 51% in 2023. This tempered view may reflect broader concerns about the role of AI in addressing educational challenges, such as learning losses exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic​​.

Students' Perspectives: Benefits and Concerns

Students generally view AI technologies like ChatGPT positively, particularly in terms of enhancing efficiency, providing learning support, and fostering creativity and critical thinking. The Quizlet report found that students who use AI technologies extensively, particularly those studying 3+ hours per night, reported significant positive impacts on their learning experiences.

However, research by David Baidoo‑Anu and colleagues (2024) provides a nuanced view of these perceptions. The study found that while students appreciate the convenience and efficiency of ChatGPT, there are significant concerns about its use. These concerns include potential academic dishonesty, over-reliance on technology, and the risk of compromising originality in academic work. Additionally, many students reported a lack of formal training or guidance on how to use these technologies responsibly and effectively. This lack of support has led to apprehensions about the ethical implications and long-term impact of relying on AI tools​​.

Teachers' Perspectives: Challenges and Opportunities

A recent study by Alwaqdani (2024) from Umm Al Qura University, Saudi Arabia found that teachers acknowledge the potential of AI tools in enhancing educational practices but also highlighted several challenges. Teachers expressed concerns about the reliability and accuracy of AI-generated content, the potential for AI to replace human educators, and the ethical implications of AI in the classroom. Moreover, teachers indicated a need for professional development and support in effectively integrating AI into their teaching practices. Despite these challenges, teachers recognized AI's ability to provide personalized learning experiences and assist in administrative tasks, which can ultimately lead to improved student outcomes.

The Need for Comprehensive AI Education Policies

As GenAI becomes more prevalent, the gap in perceptions between students and teachers highlights the need for comprehensive policies and guidelines. Only a limited number of states and educational institutions have established formal codes of conduct for AI use in education. This lack of clear guidance leaves both educators and students without a robust framework for responsible and effective use of these technologies.

In conclusion, by addressing concerns and providing adequate support and guidance, both students and teachers can fully leverage the benefits of AI in education, creating a more engaging and effective learning environment.