Study Finds AI Boosts Homework Performance but Cuts Exam Scores by One-Fifth
Research involving over 26,000 Chinese secondary students shows AI use raises homework results by 18% while monthly exam scores drop 20% within six months.
A new study of more than 26,000 Chinese pupils in grades 7 to 12 found that using generative AI increased homework scores by 18% and cut completion time by 30%, but monthly exam results declined by 20% over six months. Neuroscientists such as James Vickers and Matt Kirkcaldie caution that offloading mental effort to AI could weaken the formation of neural connections that underpin cognitive reserve, potentially accelerating age-related brain disorders.
In response, a group of students, including Alexis Shegog from Tasmania, have pledged to avoid AI in their studies, citing concerns about environmental impact and academic integrity. Survey data from the eSafety Commission shows most Australian children already use AI assistants for learning, translation, and writing. Teachers and researchers argue that future education must redesign tools and assessments so AI encourages, rather than replaces, critical thinking.
Why it matters
AI's growing role in classrooms may reshape learning outcomes and long-term brain health for students worldwide.
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