Fewer than half of UK pupils (47%) feel confident identifying accurate AI-generated information, according to new research by Oxford University Press (OUP). The study, conducted with 2,000 students aged 13 to 18, found that while eight in ten young people use AI tools for schoolwork, many struggle to distinguish trustworthy content and want clearer guidance from teachers.
Almost half of respondents (48%) said they would like support from teachers to help assess the reliability of AI content, while 51% called for clearer instructions on when and how AI should be used in lessons. A third of pupils also felt that their teachers were not confident using AI tools themselves, and one in three wanted to see these tools incorporated more often into classroom learning.
Students voiced several concerns about the impact of AI on education. Six in ten (60%) said AI tools may encourage copying rather than original work, and over half (51%) worried that AI-generated resources could reinforce bias or stereotypes. Nearly half (47%) expressed concern that teachers may be unable to detect when AI has been used to complete assignments.
To support schools in addressing these challenges, OUP has unveiled its new AI and Education Hub, alongside the report Teaching the AI-Native Generation. The Hub provides expert insights, articles, and teacher-led resources to help schools integrate AI responsibly. It also includes OUP’s AI Framework for UK School Resources, outlining principles for ethical and effective AI use in education.
Amie Lawless, Secondary Product Director at OUP, said:
“It’s encouraging to see how aware young people are of the challenges surrounding AI and how eager they are to collaborate with teachers to address them. Our new AI and Education Hub brings together educators and experts to share guidance and inspiration as AI becomes increasingly embedded in classrooms.”
Despite the concerns raised, nine in ten students said AI has helped them develop key skills, particularly in problem solving, creative thinking and exam preparation. OUP’s findings highlight both the potential and the pitfalls of AI in education, underscoring the need for balanced, responsible use.
