Today we’re talking about AI as a learning aid – the topic where parents currently waver somewhere between “This is the future!” and “Please, not this as well …“.
The worries aren’t unfounded
Many parents in Austria and Germany are sceptical about AI. And honestly: some points are hard to argue away.
70% are worried that children will use AI to cheat on homework. 62% are concerned about incorrect content. And almost half fear that AI will make school less human.
On top of that come issues like data protection, harmful content and deepfakes. Particularly striking – and a little unsettling: studies show that around one child in ten tells chatbots things they would otherwise only share with close friends. Children used to have imaginary friends. Today they have ChatGPT.
Why many parents still see opportunities
At the same time, 80% believe that children will definitely need AI skills later on. AI isn’t going away. It’s becoming everyday life.
And used properly, it really can help children:
- adapt tasks to their learning level
- give immediate feedback
- support them with homework (not do it for them!)
- prepare revision material
Parents know the feeling: by the third maths class test, you sometimes look at the question yourself and think, “Interesting. But no idea.”
And that’s where we can start. You as a parent can use AI too, to work towards the solution together with your child.
The most important point
Parents who have their own experience with AI see the benefits far more often. That’s exactly why demonising it achieves little.
Children don’t need an AI-free world. They need adults who show them how to use AI sensibly, critically and responsibly.
Mag. Christina Pölzl-Huemer
Perchtoldsdorf, Lower Austria