Survey finds surge in AI use in education

A new report highlights a dramatic rise in the use of generative AI in classrooms, reflecting both the growing confidence of educators in technology and the challenges they still face in its implementation. The 2024 Educator Confidence Report, conducted by HMH, surveyed over 1,200 K-12 educators and revealed that while tech integration in education continues to rise, educators remain cautiously optimistic about the future of generative AI.

According to the report, 97% of educators feel confident in their ability to use technology effectively in their classrooms, with many citing tools that link instruction, practice, and assessment as potential game-changers. Over 90% of teachers have remained confident in their use of technology to improve student outcomes over the past decade.

Generative AI use has seen a five-fold increase, with 50% of educators now incorporating AI into their teaching. Among those using it, 76% believe the technology is valuable, and 73% say it saves them time.

However, concerns remain, with many teachers worried about issues like plagiarism (58%) and over-dependence on AI tools (54%). A significant portion (35%) also expressed concerns about a lack of professional development to use these technologies responsibly.

The report underscores the need for ongoing support and training to ensure educators can use emerging technologies like AI effectively while addressing the broader issues impacting the profession.