In a world where technology is everywhere, Generative AI (GenAI) is playing an increasing role in shaping children’s learning experiences. A recent report by Gateway Consulting, titled “Enhancing Children’s Learning and Critical Thinking Skills in the Age of Generative AI“, sheds light on how GenAI is being used by children and the mixed perceptions of its potential.
The report’s findings reveal that 63% of parents see technology as positively impacting their children’s learning and development. Children, predominantly aged 10 and above, are using GenAI for various purposes, including educational tasks, hobbies, and even emotional support.
USES OF GENAI AMONG CHILDREN: SURVEY FINDINGS
Gateway Consulting’s report found that 77% of parents indicated their children use GenAI for educational purposes. These include understanding complex subjects, gaining general knowledge, and completing homework. Additionally:
- 20% of children use GenAI for personal hobbies or interests.
- 2% of children use it to seek social and emotional support or to learn life skills.
These numbers demonstrate the broad applications of GenAI among young users, particularly in educational settings. However, the findings also show that many parents remain divided on whether GenAI fosters critical thinking and logical problem-solving in children.
GENAI AND CRITICAL THINKING: MIXED PARENTAL PERCEPTIONS
One key aspect of the report is parents’ views on how GenAI can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. According to the survey:
- 37% of parents believe GenAI can improve their children’s critical thinking skills.
- 26% are sceptical of its impact on critical thinking.
- 37% remain neutral on the issue.
Meanwhile, 64% of parents agree that GenAI can help children develop logical problem-solving abilities. This underscores the need for parents and educators to play an active role in guiding children’s use of AI tools.
ROLE OF PARENTS AND EDUCATORS: LACK OF GUIDANCE A CONCERN
The report highlights a troubling finding: more than half of the parents surveyed admitted that they do not provide their children with any guidance on using GenAI responsibly. In fact, over 60% of parents confessed they do not teach their children how to verify the accuracy of information obtained online.
This lack of guidance raises concerns about potential overdependence on GenAI tools and the risk of children consuming misinformation. As AI becomes more ingrained in children’s learning processes, the need for parental and educational involvement becomes increasingly urgent.
IMPORTANCE OF RESPONSIBLE AI USE: AVOIDING OVERDEPENDENCE
The report advocates for proactive involvement from both parents and educators to ensure children use GenAI as a supplemental learning tool rather than relying on it completely. Without proper guidance, children may lean too heavily on AI for answers, potentially weakening their critical thinking skills.
To counter this risk, the report recommends that parents and educators teach children how to responsibly use AI tools, verify online information, and foster independent thinking.
CITIES AND DEMOGRAPHICS: THE SCOPE OF THE SURVEY
The survey conducted by Gateway Consulting covered Category X cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, and Ahmedabad. The target audience primarily consisted of well-educated parents, providing a focused look at GenAI’s impact on children’s learning within urban, educated communities.
THE PATH FORWARD FOR RESPONSIBLE GENAI USE
As Generative AI continues to shape the way children learn, it is clear that parents and educators must play a key role in guiding its use. While GenAI offers valuable tools for education, fostering critical thinking and teaching children to verify the accuracy of the information are crucial steps in ensuring responsible and effective use.
With AI becoming an integral part of modern education, the future of children’s learning depends on striking the right balance between leveraging technology and encouraging independent thought
SOME FINDINGS
100 percent children over the age of 4 years interact with devices like smart phones, tablets, and computers.
77 percent children over the age of 10 years used GenAI for education – understanding topics, subjects and concepts; general knowledge; and completing homework.
Majority of children over the age of 10 years use GenAI at least once a week
64 percent parents believed that GenAI can be used for logical problem solving on various topics.
Over 60 percent parents did not guide their children on using Gen AI tools.
Parents expressed concerns around trust, bias, overdependence on technology, age verification, child safety, impact on creativity and originality of thought.