Focus groups reveal students frequently default to AI even for class discussions, signaling a pervasive impact on daily learning and assessment integrity.

A major education research report warns that artificial intelligence poses an urgent risk to student learning and the integrity of senior qualifications, such as the HSC, due to widespread use of AI to complete assessments.

Leaders from Independent Schools NSW and the NSW Education Standards Authority say guidelines, staff capability building, and policies are needed to ensure AI enhances learning rather than replacing thinking; NESA is updating programs like All My Own Work to address cheating in the AI era.

Teachers report AI is often used to reach conclusions quickly instead of serving as a learning partner, risking the process of thinking and classroom dialogue.

Around 75% of teachers say students use AI to complete assessments, despite over 80% of schools restricting AI; about half worry they cannot curb cheating, with concerns strongest among secondary teachers but primaries are also preparing for risks.

The report calls for eight reforms, including resisting unchecked EdTech influence, monitoring AI's future benefits, and ensuring AI adoption in schools is guided, ethical, and transparent.

AI is described as cognitive outsourcing, with students using tools like ChatGPT to bypass cognitive effort, potentially harming long-term understanding even if short-term performance improves.