ChatGPT and schoolwork: helping kids use AI honestly

AI chatbots can write essays, solve math problems and summarise readings in seconds. That makes them powerful learning tools, and very tempting shortcuts. Schools and teachers are still working out the rules.

Know your school's rules

Schools differ. Some ban AI for assignments; some allow it for brainstorming or checking; some teach students how to use it. Ask your child's teachers or check the student handbook. When in doubt, your child should ask the teacher before using AI.

Good uses

• Explaining a concept in simpler words, or with examples
• Quizzing them before a test
• Checking their own work for errors, after they've done it
• Brainstorming ideas, then choosing and developing their own
• Translating or explaining difficult English or Filipino passages
• Giving feedback on their writing, which they then revise themselves

Problem uses

• Copying AI-written essays or answers and submitting them as their own
• Using AI during tests or quizzes when it's not allowed
• Letting AI do reading or problem-solving they need to learn
• Trusting AI answers without checking

Why it matters

• Learning: the struggle of writing and problem-solving is how skills develop.
• Honesty: passing off AI work as your own is cheating, with real consequences at school.
• Accuracy: AI makes mistakes, including invented facts and sources.

A simple test

Ask: "Could you explain this work and answer questions about it without the AI?" If yes, AI probably helped them learn. If no, it probably did the work for them.

Rules for home

1. Do your own thinking first, then use AI to check or improve.
2. Follow your teacher's rules. If unsure, ask.
3. Never copy AI text and submit it as your own.
4. Check facts and sources AI gives you.
5. If you used AI, be honest about how.

Make AI a tutor

Encourage prompts like:

• "Explain photosynthesis like I'm in Grade 6."
• "Give me 5 practice questions on fractions, without answers."
• "What's wrong with my argument in this paragraph? Don't rewrite it."

Talk about it

Ask your child how classmates use AI, and what they think is fair. Many children have thoughtful views. See also AI and children: a parent's guide.