Decline in Global Education Report: Is Artificial Intelligence Hindering Learning?
A new OECD report reveals that reading and mathematics performances have declined globally, raising concerns that artificial intelligence is shortening the learning process.
A newly published OECD report reveals that student performance has declined globally and in the United States. Experts point out that artificial intelligence tools and digital distractions are negatively affecting students' learning processes.
25-Year Decline in Reading Scores
A new report prepared by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has highlighted a clear regression in student performance in reading and mathematics worldwide.
According to the report, the reading performance of 15-year-old students in the United States has fallen to its lowest level in the last 25 years. Despite this, it was reported that American students continue to remain above the OECD average.
Global Trend of Regression
It was determined that average reading scores worldwide dropped by a total of 28 points over the past decade. Specifically in the U.S., the decline between 2015 and 2025 was recorded at around seven points.
Educator Yvette Renteria stated that despite having numerous tools at hand to serve students, this downward trend is extremely disappointing.
Scope of International Tests
The OECD tested and surveyed U.S. students from 144 schools for more than 4.5 days to assess the situation of 15-year-old students across approximately 90 countries and economies.
It was determined that nearly three-quarters of American youth achieved reading scores sufficient to identify the main idea of a medium-length text and follow complex instructions.
Artificial Intelligence and In-Class Impacts
According to OECD data, nearly half of students in member countries use AI chatbots on a weekly basis to help with their learning.
The organization warned that technology should not turn into a distraction in classrooms or a shortcut for learning, pointing out that the patterns are complex.
Cognitive Effort and Critical Thinking
OECD official Andreas Schleicher wrote in the report that true learning stems from cognitive effort, which can be lost when artificial intelligence is used to complete homework.
A separate study conducted by Common Sense Media revealed that 70% of teenagers use artificial intelligence for schoolwork, with a large portion resorting to these tools to directly obtain answers.
Solutions Sought for the Future
Experts draw attention to the lack of official guidance for teachers on how to use artificial intelligence in the classroom, while arguing that critical thinking and human connection must remain central.
It is emphasized that parents also play a key role in children's digital lives to ensure technology supports learning both at school and at home.