Project Tomorrow hosted an impactful edLeader Panel discussion and Congressional briefing titled “Students Speak Up About AI in Their Learning Lives,” on edWeb.net, providing an authentic, student-centered perspective on artificial intelligence in education.
Drawing on data from Project Tomorrow’s Speak Up Research Project, the event featured candid conversations about how students are using AI tools for learning, creativity and personal growth, while addressing challenges such as overreliance on the technology.
The event was presented and moderated by Dr. Julie Evans, CEO of Project Tomorrow, with an introduction from Robin Lake, director of the Center on Reinventing Public Education. The student panel featured four outstanding high school students who provided thoughtful insights throughout the discussion:
- Andy, a high school freshman from Walker County Schools, Alabama
- Arnav, a high school junior from Scottsdale Unified School District, Arizona
- Ian, a high school senior from Redondo Beach Unified School District, California
- Neha, a high school senior 0from Fayette County Public Schools, Kentucky.
This diverse panel created a rich dialogue that centered student perspectives on AI’s role in their educational experiences. They emphasized viewing AI as a valuable learning assistant, using it to clarify concepts and explore subjects.
However, they expressed thoughtful concerns about overreliance potentially diminishing creativity and the importance of preserving “critical thinking” in learning.
Ian gave an excellent use case for AI in student learning: “You can use AI to specifically challenge you, to give you a certain nuanced perspective or challenge or critique your thinking, and in that way, while without AI, you would have just been at home thinking your [presentation] was great, just reciting it to yourself. You can now present that to AI, for example, and have it critique you.”
According to the Project Tomorrow Speak Up National Report, only 15% of teachers say their district is providing ample professional development to support their adoption of AI in learning. The student panelists consistently called for comprehensive teacher professional development, urging educators to model curiosity, establish clear ethical guidelines and learn alongside students rather than simply policing for cheating.
The students advocated for reframing the conversation beyond cheating detection, noting that most students seek help rather than shortcuts and emphasizing the need for integrity-based approaches that consider context.
Students addressed essential issues, including data privacy, bias in AI models and the necessity of human oversight when evaluating AI outputs. The panel offered innovative solutions such as implementing peer-led presentations about AI use.
Throughout the discussion, students demonstrated that effective AI literacy must encompass both technical proficiency and moral dimensions, including integrity, transparency and critical evaluation skills.
The overwhelming sentiment from participants was one of hope and inspiration. The student panelists demonstrated maturity and thoughtfulness in addressing complex issues surrounding AI in education.
Their authentic perspectives provided invaluable guidance for educators, administrators and policymakers working to integrate AI responsibly and effectively into learning environments. As one participant eloquently stated: “The future is looking bright with these kids in charge.
Download the recording of Project Tomorrow’s congressional briefing, national report, supplemental infographics and lesson plans.
