LANSING, Mich. - A recent study conducted by Michigan Virtual has shed light on how K-12 students are using artificial intelligence (AI) tools in online learning courses. The research, which analyzed data from over 2,000 students enrolled in Michigan Virtual courses, offers valuable insights for educators and policymakers navigating the integration of AI in education.
The study revealed interesting patterns in student AI usage and its impact on learning outcomes. While only a small percentage of students reported using AI tools for their online courses, those who did showed promising results. The benefits of AI usage were not uniform across all subjects, however. Students in STEM fields who employed AI in multifaceted ways showed particularly strong performance gains, highlighting the potential for AI to enhance learning in these areas.
“Interestingly, the research also uncovered a relationship between students' perceptions of AI and their academic performance”, said Dr. Nikolas McGehee, Senior Data Scientist at Michigan Virtual, and author of the study. “Those with moderate views on AI tended to have better outcomes than their counterparts with either extremely positive or negative perceptions, suggesting that a balanced understanding of AI's capabilities and limitations may be beneficial.”
Concerns about potential disparities in AI access were somewhat alleviated by the study's findings. Among online learners, there were no significant differences in AI usage based on socioeconomic status or locale, indicating a potential leveling of the field in this digital learning environment. The study also identified ChatGPT as the dominant AI tool among students who reported using AI.
"This study provides insight into how students are engaging with AI in their learning," said Ken Dirkin, Sr. Director of Michigan Virtual’s Learning Research Institute. "It highlights the potential benefits of thoughtful AI integration in education while also pointing to areas where there is a need for more guidance and support."
The research recommends that educators and policymakers focus on promoting multifaceted AI usage, developing subject-specific integration strategies, and fostering balanced perceptions of AI among students.
To read Dr. McGehee’s latest study, visit /research/publications/ai-in-education-student-usage-in-online-learning/. To learn more about Michigan Virtual’s AI Lab, visit www.michiganvirtual.org/resources/ai.
Michigan Virtual
For more than 27 years, Michigan Virtual has partnered with K–12 school districts across Michigan to expand learning opportunities for students and educators alike. Through our high-quality online courses, taught by Michigan-certified, highly qualified teachers, we empower students to learn anytime, anywhere. We also provide affordable, impactful professional development to help educators grow in their craft. Most recently, Michigan Virtual has been at the forefront of innovation and artificial intelligence in education, offering consultation services and professional learning to guide schools in thoughtfully integrating new technologies and learning pathways.