Teaching the AI-native generation
Dr Alexandra Tomescu
“This research is a powerful reminder that students want to collaborate with their teachers to navigate the challenges of AI.”
In October, Oxford University Press released Teaching the AI-Native Generation, a report exploring how young people in the UK perceive and interact with AI in their education. As someone deeply involved in the development of AI tools for learning, I found the insights both illuminating and encouraging.
We surveyed 2,000 UK students aged 13–18 to understand their experiences, concerns, and aspirations around AI in the classroom. The results revealed a generation that is not only engaging with AI tools but also thinking critically about their impact.
Despite widespread use with 80% of students saying that they use AI in their schoolwork, less than half (47%) feel confident identifying accurate AI-generated information. A third (32%) admit they can’t tell if AI content is true, and 21% are unsure. This signals a clear need for guidance and support.
Students are asking for help. Nearly half (48%) want teachers to explain how to judge the trustworthiness of AI content, and 51% want clearer rules on when and how to use AI tools. Interestingly, a third believe their teachers lack confidence in using AI themselves, and many students would like to see more AI resources integrated into lessons.
Concerns about AI’s influence are also prominent. Sixty percent worry it encourages copying over original thinking, and 51% fear it may reinforce bias or stereotypes. Almost half (48%) suspect their peers are secretly using AI to complete schoolwork, and 47% worry teachers can’t detect it.
Yet, there’s optimism. Nine in ten students say AI has helped them develop a skill—problem solving, idea generation, and exam prep top the list. At the same time, 62% report negative effects, such as reduced creative thinking and over-reliance.
What struck me most was the sophistication of students’ responses. For 60% to express concern about AI promoting copying over creativity shows a deep understanding of what learning is meant to achieve. These are not passive users, they’re actively evaluating the role of technology in their education.
To support schools, we’ve launched the AI and Education site, a dedicated hub offering expert insights, peer advice, and practical resources. It includes our AI Framework for UK School Resources, which outlines the principles guiding our approach to AI tool development.
This research is a powerful reminder that students want to collaborate with their teachers to navigate the challenges of AI. It’s our responsibility to ensure that AI tools are built on trusted content, sound pedagogy, and a deep understanding of learners’ needs.
Read the full report, Teaching the AI-Native Generation, and explore the Oxford AI and Education Hub for expert insights, practical resources, and our AI Framework for UK School Resources.
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