The popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in education has surged among students and teachers in the United States, according to a recent survey by Impact Research for the Walton Family Foundation.
The survey, conducted from May 7 to 15, marks the second time the foundation has explored attitudes toward AI chatbots among educators and students. \"There is much discourse about the rise and prevalence of AI in education and beyond. These debates often lack the perspectives of key stakeholders – parents, students and teachers,\" the foundation stated in a release on Tuesday.
Results indicate a significant increase in familiarity with AI tools like ChatGPT. Among teachers, awareness rose from 55 percent to 79 percent, while among K-12 students, it jumped from 37 percent to 75 percent. Additionally, approximately 75 percent of students, teachers, and parents reported using AI chatbots either personally or in educational settings, with about half engaging with them weekly or more frequently.
The majority of respondents view AI positively, believing it enhances education and is crucial for future student success. Over eight out of ten participants in each group acknowledged the positive impact of technology in education. However, there are concerns about the rapid pace of AI adoption in America and its potential to displace jobs.
Despite the widespread use of AI chatbots, most K-12 teachers, parents, and students feel that their schools are not adequately addressing AI integration. The survey revealed a lack of policies, insufficient teacher training, and unmet demands for AI-related career preparation.
\"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.\"
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AI chatbot popularity surges among U.S. students, teachers: survey
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