Over the past couple of years, artificial intelligence has taken its place in the arsenal of students’ work. AI tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Quizlet seem to be there all around; you use them to write essays and to get a grip on answers to complicated math questions. But as much as students enjoy their convenience, questions of ethics are rising.

A lot of students are relying on AI to automate boring tasks. For instance, whether generating essay ideas or summarizing difficult reading, ChatGPT can brainstorm such processes, while Grammarly can check grammar and style immediately. AI tools are used to take care of flashcards or practice quizzes on Quizlet. Students help students memorize information quickly with the help of AI. These tools are almost lifelines for a student juggling classes, jobs, and other activities. Yet the ethical nature is not always simple, others argue that using AI to generate essays or answers, crosses a line into academic dishonesty. Especially when students submit assignments without revisions or comprehension. On the contrary, AI that helps you study or edit without thinking for you is usually understood to be acceptable.

The difference depends on intention: Learn, or outsource your work? Students report mixed feelings. “AI is mostly used for brainstorming and double-checking essays. It allows me to concentrate on the concepts instead of worrying about small mistakes.” Another one says it’s being used for more questionable purposes, like producing full essays, which raises questions over fairness and academic integrity.

With continuing development in both the AI and data eras, students, schools, and the people who teach students will need to learn about the good side of AI and its limits. For now, one thing is indisputable: AI isn’t going anywhere, and being able to use it responsibly could be as important as learning some of what you’d hope to learn in a traditional study skill.