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A writing professor’s new task in the age of AI: Teaching students when to struggle

AI in Education EditorialUpdated June 2, 20261 min readRead source
A writing professor’s new task in the age of AI: Teaching students when to struggle
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If you aren’t working at it, you’re not learning it − something college students need to understand as AI makes producing work easier. Sam Edwards via Getty Images I was early to the generative AI wave in higher education: I was among the first professors who teach writing to publish in an academic journal about generative AI and critical thinking , and I am now part of an interdisciplinary team at Babson College thinking about how AI is impacting education,

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People Also Ask

What is the best AI tool for students?
The most widely used AI tools for students include ChatGPT for writing and research assistance, Grammarly for grammar and clarity, and Khan Academy's Khanmigo for personalized tutoring. The best choice depends on the task: ChatGPT suits open-ended research, while Khanmigo guides students through problems step by step without just giving answers.
Is it cheating to use AI as a student?
Whether using AI counts as cheating depends on the school's academic integrity policy. Many institutions now allow AI for brainstorming, editing, or research but prohibit submitting AI-generated text as original work. Students should always disclose AI use when required and verify that AI-generated content is accurate before submitting.
How can AI help students learn more effectively?
AI helps students learn by providing instant feedback, adapting difficulty to individual pace, and offering on-demand explanations at any hour. Tutoring tools like Socratic by Google and Khanmigo guide students through reasoning rather than supplying direct answers, which research shows improves long-term retention.
Are there free AI tools for students?
Yes. ChatGPT (free tier), Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity AI are all free to use for students. Khan Academy's Khanmigo is free for US students, and many school districts provide licensed access to AI tools at no cost through institutional agreements.