AI in the Classroom: A Tool, Not a Threat

Artificial intelligence—generative AI, in particular—has quickly established itself as a game-changer. Despite being relatively unheard of until a few years ago, it’s rapidly transforming entire industries, including education.

But as AI’s popularity grows, so do the misconceptions surrounding it—and with these misconceptions comes fear. Some educators worry AI will replace teachers. Others fear it will make students unmotivated or diminish critical thinking skills.

These concerns are understandable. You’ve probably had similar thoughts yourself. Maybe you’ve already decided to fear it, hate it, or ban it from your classroom. One article won’t change deeply held beliefs like this overnight. But if you’ve read this far, it probably means you’re still on the fence, or at least open to other points of view, so it’s good you’re here. It means you’re open to a different way to think about AI.

AI isn’t here to replace teachers, it’s here to help them

So, here’s the truth: While AI is not here to take over classrooms, it is here to stay. This is clear from its rapid and widespread adoption across industries, such as business and healthcare. “[AI is] evolving rather than disappearing,” says Rachael Mann, “[and it’s] not just a short-term trend. It is a fundamental shift in technology.”

That said, at the end of the day, AI is not a monster or a miracle or a better version of you. It’s a tool—a powerful one, and useful, but still just a tool, and nothing more.

If you find this unsettling, know that you’re in good company. Humanity has always been resistant to change. History is full of skepticism toward innovations we now take for granted.

Take indoor plumbing, for example. When it was first introduced, many objected, insisting that chamber pots were just fine and that bringing what was essentially an outhouse into the home was unsanitary and even dangerous. (If you want to read more about it, check out Rachael Mann’s book Pack Your Bags for an AI-Driven Future.)

Can you believe people used to object to something like this?

Looking back, that kind of resistance seems absurd. But it’s human nature to be wary of the unknown.

The key to reducing discomfort over something like AI is to understand what it really is. So, what is it? Well, in short, it’s technology that enables computers to analyze data, recognize patters, and generate responses in a way that mimics certain aspects of human intelligence. And right now, it’s still new, so that may seem a bit threatening. But if we take the time to understand it in its most basic form and integrate it into our classrooms instead of avoiding it, we’ll surely look back on this moment the same way we view past technological shifts—as an inevitable step forward.

Teaching AI the right way

Like any new advancement, students must be taught how to use AI correctly. It should never replace critical thinking, writing, or logic skills—and if used properly, it won’t. (How to teach AI effectively will vary by subject and educator, but that’s another discussion.)

The key takeaway is that AI is a supplement, not a shortcut, and the quicker students learn how to use it, the better. This is because many industries are already expecting its use, and students who graduate without AI literacy will be at a disadvantage.

While AI may change what and how we teach, avoiding it isn’t the answer. Instead, educators should guide students in integrating it into their learning to best prepare them for the future.

AI as a teaching assistant, not a teacher

Now, about AI replacing teachers—it won’t. Real teachers are irreplaceable. The emotional support they provide and real-time adaptability they’re capable of can’t be replicated by a machine.

But what AI can do is serve as an on-demand teaching assistant, offering explanations, answering basic questions, and reinforcing classroom learning—especially outside of school hours. Instead of fearing AI, take comfort in knowing your students some secondary support even when you’re off the clock.

Embracing AI in education

AI is just one more classroom resource. But like any other, its value depends on how it’s used. If students rely on it without truly engaging or thinking critically—just like if they don’t take notes properly in class, or just skim the textbook—they’ll struggle when they need to apply that knowledge later on. Real learning still has to happen, and AI won’t change that.

Some may misuse AI, but banning it won’t prevent this. It will only prevent them from learning to use it correctly. By integrating AI into the curriculum, educators can ensure it remains a resource and not a crutch.

So, what is it really?

In summary: a tool. An assistant. A paradigm-shifter and a helping hand.

And more importantly, what is it not? It’s not a replacement for critical thinking. It’s not something to fear or avoid. It’s not the enemy of education, but a powerful ally in shaping its future and helping students be the best they can be.

And it is not a replacement for you.

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Want to learn more about how AI is transforming education? Visit Rachael Mann online, and be sure to sign up for the Instructional Excellence program at Catapult to watch Rachael Mann’s full masterclass, where she breaks down exactly how AI can be a force for good in the classroom.