IWM expertise featured in new policy paper on AI in education

Artificial intelligence is increasingly finding its way into school-based learning processes – often with the aim of achieving results more quickly. Yet this is precisely where a key challenge lies: if AI is used primarily as a ‘solution machine’, there is a risk that learning processes will be shortened and skills will not be developed in a sustainable manner.

From dependence to agency

The latest policy paper, ‘AI in Education: From Dependence to Agency’, therefore focuses on a key competence: self-regulated learning. This refers to learners’ ability to plan, manage and reflect on their learning process independently – a requirement for sustainable skills acquisition in an increasingly digitalised educational landscape.

Prof. Dr. Peter Gerjets from the Leibniz-Institut für Wissensmedien was also involved in drafting the paper. His research perspective shapes a central idea of the paper: AI should not contribute to outsourcing thought processes, but rather support learners in actively shaping and deepening them.

AI as a tool that promotes independent thinking

“AI can significantly support learning processes – but it is crucial that it is not used as a shortcut, but rather as a tool that promotes independent thinking and self-regulated learning,” says Gerjets.

The paper distinguishes between different roles of AI in an educational context – ranging from the mere provision of solutions to its use as a “learning coach” that specifically supports reflection, motivation and strategic learning. The latter is considered a particularly promising approach for strengthening learners’ ability to take action long term.

This presents a key challenge for educational research: AI-based learning environments must be designed in such a way that they not only improve short-term performance but also promote sustainable learning processes. This is precisely where research at the IWM comes in, focusing on the question of how digital technologies can be used effectively to support learning.

The complete policy paper can be found here: AI in Education: From Dependence to Agency!