More than half of teens are using AI for schoolwork—and many parents don’t know it

Fortune

by Jake Angelo

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

More than half of U.S. teens are leveraging AI tools like chatbots to assist with schoolwork, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey. The study revealed that 57% of teens use AI for searching information, while 54% employ it directly in their homework. This goes beyond simple tasks like solving math problems or analyzing literature; some students are even using AI to summarize entire books and articles without reading them themselves. While not all teens rely heavily on AI—about 45% don't use it for schoolwork—a significant 10% admit to using AI for most or all of their work, with many finding it very helpful. However, there's a notable gap between what teens are doing and what their parents know. Despite 64% of teens reporting AI usage, only 51% of parents believe their children use such tools. This disconnect is particularly striking compared to social media awareness, where parents tend to be more informed about their kids' online activities. Many parents remain uncertain whether their teens are using AI at all. The implications of this trend are significant for education and business. While some parents approve of AI's role in summarizing texts or aiding with homework, concerns about its impact on critical thinking and creativity persist. A Brookings report warns that AI could "fast-food-ize" education, prioritizing quick, frictionless outcomes over meaningful learning experiences. This raises questions about the long-term benefits of AI integration in schools and how best to prepare students for an increasingly technology-driven world. From a business perspective, this trend highlights opportunities and challenges. The demand for AI tools in education is clear, with companies offering AI-powered study aids likely seeing increased interest. However, the broader societal implications—such as the potential erosion of essential skills like critical thinking—could prompt schools and policymakers to rethink how they integrate AI into curricula. As technology continues to evolve, balancing its benefits with risks will be crucial for maintaining a high-quality education system.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/25/2026