AI in Education: Preserving Human Agency in an AI World

On the International Day of Education 2025, we dived into a hot topic reshaping classrooms worldwide – Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. This year’s theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” couldn’t be more relevant.

AI isn’t just science fiction anymore. It’s in our schools, study routines, and lesson plans. From tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, and Distinction AI, students and teachers alike are using AI for teaching and learning-related activities.

We conducted a poll, 79% of respondents said they’ve used an AI tool for schoolwork or teaching. Unsurprisingly, ChatGPT dominated with 86% popularity, but other tools like Gemini AI, Claude, Bard, and Distinction AI are gaining traction.

For teachers, AI offers a chance to streamline grading, design personalized learning experiences, and automate repetitive tasks. For students, it’s a study buddy that can help with research, brainstorming, and writing. But is it all smooth sailing?

How do people feel about AI?

We asked educators and learners how they feel about AI in education. The responses were divided.

• 67% said they’re excited. Many see AI as a powerful tool to enhance learning and teaching.
• 33% admitted they’re worried. Concerns ranged from over-reliance on AI to its impact on creativity and critical thinking.

These mixed emotions highlight a crucial reality. While AI can improve education, it also brings challenges that we can’t ignore.

What are the concerns about AI in Education?

Both teachers and learners raised important concerns about the growing role of AI:

• Loss of creativity and critical thinking: Over-reliance on AI could dull these essential skills.
• Security risks: AI tools often require personal data, raising privacy concerns.
• Laziness and brain decay: There’s fear that students might let AI do all the thinking for them.
• Impact on teaching roles: Could AI eventually replace some aspects of teaching?

These are valid fears, but they’re also opportunities for us to rethink how we use AI.

How teachers can use AI responsibly

For educators, AI is a chance to save time and enhance lessons. But, it’s no substitute for human connection. Here’s how teachers can strike a balance:

• Use AI for grading or generating lesson ideas, but ensure it complements your personal expertise.
• Design activities that encourage problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration.
• Teach students about responsible AI use, including ethics and privacy.

AI can never replace the guidance, empathy, and insight a teacher brings to the classroom.

How students can use AI without losing their edge

AI is a great tool for students, but it’s not a shortcut to success. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Let AI assist with brainstorming and research, but do the heavy lifting yourself.
• Use AI to explore new ideas, then develop your own creative solutions.
• Be mindful of your privacy when using AI platforms.
• Use Distinction AI to prepare for exams.

When used wisely, AI can help students grow into more independent, innovative thinkers.

What’s Next?

AI is here to stay, and its role in education will only grow. As we embrace these tools, we must ensure they enhance human agency instead of replacing it. Education is, at its heart, about people. It’s about teachers who inspire, students who strive, and communities that support them.