Nebraska Schools Grapple with Artificial Intelligence in Education
A growing number of students, educators, and parents across the country are turning to artificial intelligence tools for help with schoolwork. According to a national survey conducted over the past year, this trend is also evident in Nebraska classrooms. However, research suggests that AI use varies widely depending on factors such as location, income level, and school policies.
The Pew Research Center’s 2025 survey found that more than half of teenagers reported using chatbots for information or help with assignments. A significant majority of these teens – 59% – believed students frequently used AI chatbots to cheat. Parents’ views were divided: while some 51% said their teen uses a chatbot, others expressed concerns about the potential risks.
Parents surveyed by Pew Research Center generally approved of using AI for informational purposes or entertainment but opposed its use for casual conversation or emotional support. This ambivalence reflects broader debates around AI’s role in education and society. As schools increasingly incorporate data analysis tools into their curriculum, questions arise about how to balance benefits with potential risks.
Research conducted by the Center for Democracy and Technology identified four key concerns: data breaches and ransomware attacks, tech-enabled harassment and bullying, malfunctioning AI systems, and problematic interactions between students and technology. Despite these warnings, 85% of schools surveyed reported using AI in some capacity during the 2024-25 school year.
School policies are shifting to accommodate this trend, with many institutions permitting AI use while also implementing safeguards against potential risks. However, teachers’ attitudes toward AI vary widely depending on their experience and comfort level with these tools. The Center for Democracy and Technology found that educators who used AI more frequently were more likely to see its benefits.
Interestingly, students whose schools made extensive use of AI reported feeling a greater distance from their teachers. This finding highlights the need for nuanced consideration of how AI affects student-teacher relationships and overall educational outcomes. As Nebraska Public Media News continues to explore this complex issue, we invite readers to share their thoughts on the role of artificial intelligence in education.
If you’re interested in contributing your insights or have questions about our reporting process, please contact Jolie Peal at [email protected].