Over the past two years, artificial intelligence has taken the virtual world by storm. These days, either an image or a piece of writing can be generated by AI, and people may not even realize whether it was created by a human or a computer, which can lead to rumors or even damage someone’s reputation.
Experts predict that by 2040, some jobs could be lost to automation as robots and AI systems become more capable. In schools, students use AI for essays, studying, or simply to better understand assignments. However, some students use it to complete their work for an effortless A.
AI, or artificial intelligence, is a broad term for computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. The most common type is general AI, which includes programs such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Some AI systems are designed for editing photos or generating images, while others, such as Character AI or phone assistants, use memory-based systems that can remember information over time.
In schools, AI has become a growing issue since it was first introduced. While some students use it responsibly, others misuse it in ways that limit creativity and learning.
“AI has completely taken over the creativity that students have in their schoolwork,” said sophomore Sule Francis, an AP student who writes for fun. “Some students use AI to create essays because they don’t want to do it themselves or they don’t have enough time.”
AI’s influence isn’t limited to academics. It has also made an impact in art and music.
Art class is a space for students to express creativity through drawing, painting, or crafting. But with AI, digital images can be produced in seconds, undermining the time and emotion that artists put into their original work.
“AI produces low-quality work and pumps out recycled material from other artists,” said Chase Baumann, a sophomore who plays drums and loves art. “It’s frustrating for artists who spend hours, or even months, creating something meaningful.”
In music, students who compose or produce songs are also feeling the effects. “I’m extremely frustrated with AI,” said Arianna Pitcher, a junior who wants to become a music producer. “It can make a perfect beat, while there are people who spend years learning how to make music and use the software.”
Many students worry that one day, most music will be created by AI instead of people. A similar idea is explored in the Netflix anime series Carol & Tuesday, which imagines a future where AI-generated music dominates the industry.
AI still has a long way to go before it becomes fully developed, but it’s already changing the way people learn and create. To prevent AI from taking over students’ work, some schools have started using AI detection tools and requiring more in-class writing or paper-based assignments.
While opinions about AI will continue to differ, many students agree that its impact depends on how it’s used. For now, the challenge for both students and teachers is finding a balance between embracing technology and protecting human creativity.
