70% of Teens Rely on AI for Schoolwork, Leading to Decline in Test Scores
70% of Teens Rely on AI for Schoolwork, Leading to Decline in Test Scores
US · Published Oct 2, 2026
• A recent survey by Common Sense Media’s Youth AI Safety Institute reveals that 70% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 in the United States use AI tools for their schoolwork.
• Of these, 63% admitted to using AI primarily to get answers, rather than to enhance their understanding.

Impact & Risks

The overuse of AI in education is raising alarms about its impact on students' cognitive development and academic performance. Teachers report that even high-performing students are failing standardized tests, as they struggle to engage with material independently. This trend could have long-term consequences, including a decline in essential skills like critical thinking and reading comprehension. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has also linked the use of AI and smartphones to a global drop in reading skills. Experts warn that the current reliance on AI in education may undermine the core principles of teaching and learning.

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