There’s something I’ve been reflecting on lately, particularly around how AI is being introduced into secondary school classrooms. More and more, I’m seeing situations where, during exam periods, teachers provide students with prompts for tools like ChatGPT and ask them to generate revision materials or answers using AI. While this may seem like a forward-thinking and innovative approach, I find myself questioning whether this is truly the most effective way to support meaningful learning.
AI SHOULD SUPPORT TEACHING , NOT REPLACE IT
AI is undeniably powerful and has the potential to transform education in positive ways. It can help teachers create more engaging lessons, present information in different formats, and simplify complex ideas. However, it’s important to recognise that AI is not designed to replace teachers or the learning process itself. When students rely on AI to generate answers, especially in subjects they are still trying to understand, they risk becoming passive recipients of information rather than active participants in their own learning journey.
THE PROBLEM OF AI HALLUCINATIONS
One of the most important issues that often gets overlooked is the fact that AI can produce incorrect information. These errors, often referred to as “hallucinations,” are not always obvious. In fact, AI can present wrong answers with a high level of confidence, making them appear trustworthy. For students who are still developing their understanding of a subject, this creates a serious challenge, as they may not yet have the ability to distinguish between what is accurate and what is not.
WHEN STUDENTS DON’T KNOW WHAT’S WRONG
This concern becomes even more significant when we consider the position of the learner. If a student does not already understand a topic, they are unlikely to question the answers generated by AI. Instead, they may accept the information as correct and build their knowledge on that flawed foundation. In this situation, the use of AI is not enhancing learning, it is potentially reinforcing misunderstandings and gaps in knowledge.
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A REAL EXAMPLE OF THE RISK
This is not just a hypothetical issue; it’s something I’ve experienced myself. I once used AI to generate a computer science quiz and found that every single answer provided was incorrect. Because I had prior knowledge of the subject, I was able to identify the mistakes and correct them. However, that experience highlighted a critical point: without that background knowledge, it would have been very easy to accept those answers as accurate. This is the exact risk students face when using AI without proper guidance.
USING AI REQUIRES PRIOR UNDERSTANDING
There is an assumption that AI can be used as a starting point for learning, but in reality, it often requires a level of understanding to be used effectively. Even AI tools themselves include disclaimers stating that their outputs may contain errors and should be verified. For secondary school students who are still building foundational knowledge, this expectation may not be realistic. Asking them to rely on AI without the ability to critically evaluate its responses raises important questions about the quality of learning taking place.
AI IS EASY TO USE, THAT’S NOT THE CHALLENGE
Another common argument is that students need early exposure to AI in order to be prepared for the future. While there is value in introducing new technologies, it’s worth noting that AI tools are not particularly difficult to use. Anyone who can navigate a search engine can use AI. The key difference is that AI delivers answers instantly, whereas traditional search requires effort, reading multiple sources, comparing information, and thinking critically. That process, although slower, plays an important role in learning.
THE IRREPLACEABLE ROLE OF TEACHERS
In all of this, the role of the teacher remains central. Teaching is not just about delivering information; it involves experience, intuition, and the ability to adapt explanations to suit different learners. Teachers understand how to guide students, how to challenge them, and how to support their progress over time. These are qualities that AI cannot replicate. The human element in education is not something that can be replaced by technology.
A MORE THOUGHTFUL WAY TO USE AI
Rather than placing students directly into the hands of AI tools, a more effective approach would be to integrate AI in ways that support teaching rather than bypass it. Teachers can use AI to enhance lesson delivery, generate ideas, and create more engaging classroom experiences. In this context, AI becomes a tool that empowers educators, rather than one that shifts the responsibility of learning onto students too early.
BUILDING FOUNDATIONS BEFORE INTRODUCING AI
Students benefit most when they first develop a strong foundation of knowledge. Once they have that understanding, they are in a much better position to use AI effectively, questioning its outputs, identifying errors, and using it to deepen their learning. Introducing AI at the right stage ensures that it enhances education rather than undermines it.
FINAL THOUGHTS
AI itself is not the problem; the challenge lies in how it is used. If we are not careful, we risk encouraging a form of learning that is overly dependent on tools that students may not fully understand. Instead, the focus should be on equipping teachers to use AI thoughtfully and strategically, ensuring that education remains grounded in human expertise while benefiting from technological advancement.
Hi, I’m Dr. Mobolanle Bello, a Computer Science Lecturer with over 15 years of experience in software engineering, web development, data science, database management, ebusiness, research, and education. My expertise includes creating bespoke digital solutions such as e-learning platforms and e-commerce sites, alongside conducting research in AI, machine learning, and network optimisation. I have published my work in respected journals and conferences, contributing to advancements in technology. Outside of academia, I am passionate about using technology to improve lives and am committed to inspiring the next generation of tech professionals through teaching and collaboration.
