Helping Students Use Artificial Intelligence Ethically and Effectively

The AI Shift in Education Is Already Here

Artificial intelligence isn’t coming to the classroom, it’s already here. From grammar corrections to summarizing texts, generating coding scripts to explaining complex math problems, students today are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Khanmigo to assist in their schoolwork. But what does this mean for learning, and are students simply “cheating,” as some adults fear?

A recent article in The New York Times highlights the complicated feelings educators and students have about using AI for academic work (nytimes.com). Some schools have banned AI tools entirely, while others are encouraging responsible use. The truth? Students are already using AI and want more guidance, not punishment.

What Students Really Think About AI

According to a 2024 study by Harvard’s Graduate School of Education (gse.harvard.edu), teens want adults to understand three key things about their AI use:

1. They see AI as a tool, not a shortcut. Students use it to brainstorm ideas, check their work, and better understand tough topics — not to avoid learning.

2. They want help setting boundaries. Many teens are unsure where the line is between “using” and “relying on” AI and want guidance from teachers and parents.

3. They care about learning. Contrary to stereotypes, students don’t want to “game the system” — they want to learn in ways that are engaging, efficient, and supportive.

This insight is crucial: AI is not replacing student effort — it’s shaping how that effort happens.

Is Using AI Cheating?

That’s the big question. And the answer is: It depends. When AI is used to copy and paste full essays, bypass assignments, or skip readings entirely, yes, it crosses the line. But when students use AI to:

• Reword a paragraph they don’t fully understand,

• Check their math steps before submitting,

• Brainstorm examples or vocabulary words for an assignment…it becomes a learning assistant, not a replacement for thinking.

Educators now face the challenge of redefining academic integrity in the age of artificial intelligence — not avoiding it.

What Parents Can Do: Guide, Don’t Gatekeep

Parents are key players in helping kids use AI responsibly. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Talk About It Early

Ask your child what AI tools they use and how they use them. Start the conversation by asking: What do you like or dislike about AI for school? or Do you think it’s helpful or distracting?

2. Emphasize Integrity

Make sure your child knows the difference between learning with AI and outsourcing their thinking to AI. Remind them that doing the hard work builds real skills.

3. Use AI Together

Try exploring AI as a family. Ask ChatGPT to explain a tough homework concept, then check if it’s correct. This builds media literacy and shows that AI is a tool — not a tutor.

4. Set Boundaries

Work with your child to agree on times and ways they’re allowed to use AI. For example, they might use it for checking grammar but not writing whole essays.

How Kente Academy Supports Ethical AI Learning

At Kente Academy, we know that the future of learning is digital and we want our students to be leaders, not followers. Here’s how we help:

Teach AI Literacy

We help students understand how AI tools work, what their strengths and limits are, and how to use them effectively.

Promote Ethical Use

We provide clear guidelines on responsible AI use, showing students how to avoid plagiarism and think critically about the information AI gives them.

Encourage Creative Problem-Solving

Instead of shortcuts, we use AI as a springboard for deeper learning. For example, we’ll challenge students to compare an AI-generated answer with their own and critique the differences.

Support Parents

We provide resources and workshops for families to better understand educational technology and support their children at home.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Our professional tutors are trained in the latest digital tools and platforms, ensuring that students receive the most relevant and up-to-date instruction.

Final Thoughts: A Tool, Not a Threat

AI is neither magic nor menace — it’s a tool. Whether it helps or harms depends on how students use it and who guides them. At Kente Academy, we’re committed to helping students thrive in this new era by combining strong ethics with real life opportunity.

Join the Conversation

Have you talked to your child about using AI for schoolwork? What are your thoughts on this growing trend?

We’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment, reach out, or explore how our tutoring services can help your student build the confidence and critical thinking skills needed for success in today’s classrooms — and tomorrow’s world.

Sources:

Are Students Cheating When They Use AI for Their Schoolwork? – The New York Times

Students Are Using AI Already — Here’s What They Think Adults Should Know – Harvard GSE

AI in the Classroom: Navigating the New Frontier of Learning