Most K-12 teachers say AI's impact on education will eclipse the internet or computers

June 10, 2026 - 23:04

A new national survey from NPR and Ipsos reveals that a majority of K-12 teachers expect artificial intelligence to have a greater impact on education than the internet or personal computers ever did. While many educators are already using AI tools to save time on lesson planning and grading, the poll also highlights deep concerns about the technology's effect on students.

According to the findings, roughly six in ten teachers believe AI will fundamentally change how students learn. However, a similar majority worry that reliance on AI is making it harder for young people to develop critical thinking skills. Teachers reported seeing students use chatbots to complete assignments without understanding the material, raising questions about academic integrity and genuine learning.

The survey suggests a split in how AI is being adopted. Many teachers use it to streamline administrative tasks, freeing up time for direct instruction. But they also expressed unease about the long-term consequences. Some educators noted that while AI can help personalize lessons, it also risks creating a generation of students who expect instant answers rather than working through problems themselves.

The poll comes as schools across the country grapple with how to set policies for AI use. Few districts have clear guidelines, leaving teachers to make their own calls. The results indicate that while AI is seen as a powerful tool, its integration into classrooms will require careful balance between efficiency and preserving the core skills of independent thought.