As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education, a surprising trend is emerging: Educators are more inclined to use AI tools in their academic practices than students. According to Copyleaks’ 2024 AI in Academic study, which surveyed 1,000 students and 250 educators across the U.S., educators are not only more comfortable with AI, but they are also leveraging it more frequently to enhance classroom learning and manage their workloads.
Educators Outpacing Students in AI Usage
The study found that 34% of educators use AI frequently to draft or review assignments, compared to 24% of students. Interestingly, 22% of students rarely use AI, almost double the 12% of educators who report the same. While male students are more likely to embrace AI (29%) than their female counterparts (16%), the overall adoption rate among students trails behind that of educators.
Educators are leading the charge in integrating AI into education, recognizing its potential as a transformative tool for personalized learning and efficiency. However, recent findings reveal an opportunity to address the AI enthusiasm and literacy gap between students and educators. By fostering open, collaborative discussions about ethical AI use, students can be empowered to unlock their full potential responsibly.
Key Findings
â—Ź Enthusiasm for AI: 70% of educators and 58% of students support deeper AI integration, with 87% and 78%, respectively, optimistic about its potential for personalized learning.
â—Ź Trust in AI Tools: Slightly more educators (31%) than students (27%) are comfortable using AI-powered apps, with similar trust levels for study recommendations (28% vs. 29%)
â—Ź Ethical Concerns: 55% of students admit to using AI against school policies, compared to 27% of educators, with high school males leading the unsanctioned use (64%).
â—Ź AI Literacy Gap: 68% of educators vs. 41% of students see understanding AI as very important, highlighting a need for focused literacy initiatives.
● AI Detection Awareness: 87% of both groups recognize AI detection tools’ role in addressing plagiarism and academic dishonesty regarding AI use.
Bridging the Gap in AI Education
Educators are eager to embrace AI’s potential for personalizing learning and enhancing efficiency. However, the gap in ethical awareness and AI literacy among students underscores the importance of clear guidelines and structured training.
Closing this divide is essential to ensuring AI’s role in education remains both transformative and responsible.
Why It Matters
With AI playing an increasingly pivotal role in academia, fostering trust, transparency and ethical use is more critical than ever. Schools and educators must work together to establish clear policies and provide training that equips educators and students with the tools to navigate AI effectively. Only then can the benefits of AI in education be fully realized, transforming learning for the better.
