Students in Queensland Seek More Guidance in AI Use
Research conducted across three public schools in Queensland shows that students expect more guidance, transparency, and collaboration from their teachers when using artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The study, carried out by Balmoral State High School in partnership with the UQ Learning Lab, aims to understand why and how students use generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, and to use these insights to inform teaching practices.
The initial findings indicate that teachers need to further develop their competencies in using AI tools, assessment design should be re-evaluated, and students must be provided with clear guidelines on the ethical use of AI. Data collected from 711 students in 2025 shows that AI use has become more widespread and intentional. Most students use AI to explain difficult concepts (69%), generate ideas (67%), and receive grammar and punctuation support (49%). While younger students are more likely to see AI as “cheating,” senior students view it as a legitimate tool that supports learning. However, students across all age groups agree that directly copying and pasting AI-generated content is unethical.
Teachers emphasize that the process is not only about teaching students how to use AI, but also about adopting a mindset of “co-learning.” The next step for schools is to expand these efforts to the whole school level, ensuring that every teacher develops confidence both in their own use of AI and in guiding students toward ethical and effective AI practices.