Teach our children not just how to use AI, but also when not to reach for it

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 11, 2026

A survey found that two-thirds of Singaporean students use AI chatbots weekly for learning, a rate much higher than the OECD average, with many relying on these tools for research and writing tasks. This trend raises concerns about potential negative effects on students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills, prompting calls for balanced AI integration that fosters independent learning alongside technology use.

A recent survey highlights that two-thirds of Singaporean students use artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots at least weekly to assist with learning, a figure notably higher than the 46 percent average among Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. The data, reported alongside findings that placed Singapore students at the top in reading and near the top in mathematics and science, has sparked discussion on the implications of widespread AI use in education.

According to the study, nearly half of Singaporean students employ AI tools for tasks such as researching topics, summarizing texts, and drafting written work. While the integration of AI into learning offers clear advantages, some observers caution against overreliance on these technologies. The OECD report also indicated that, across member countries, students who refrained from using AI chatbots tended to score approximately 20 points higher in science assessments compared to those who used them regularly.

A parent of two teenagers expressed concern about the potential drawbacks of frequent AI use, emphasizing the importance of developing perseverance, curiosity, and resilience in students. She argued that while AI can provide quick answers, it may inadvertently hinder students from engaging deeply with challenging problems and building independent problem-solving skills. In her view, learning involves struggling through difficulties, embracing mistakes, and persisting until mastery is achieved, processes that cannot be replaced by AI assistance.

She advocates for a balanced approach in education where students are taught not only how to use AI effectively but also when it is appropriate to rely on it. For example, students could be encouraged to attempt problems independently before consulting AI tools, and then to articulate the solutions in their own words. Additionally, she suggests that parents shift conversations toward understanding their children's problem-solving approaches rather than merely confirming task completion.

These perspectives highlight an ongoing debate about the role of AI in education, weighing its benefits in enhancing access to information and efficiency against concerns about its impact on critical thinking and learning resilience. As AI technologies become increasingly embedded in classrooms worldwide, educators and policymakers face the challenge of integrating these tools in ways that support both academic achievement and the development of essential cognitive skills.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.