As the students of the UAE get ready to go back to school on August 31 for the 2026-27 academic year, artificial intelligence will no doubt continue to be part of the conversation.
For instance, artificial intelligence can help students to understand certain topics more clearly, practice and prepare for tests, and even improve their work, but only when used in moderation.
Artificial intelligence has already started to integrate into the educational system of the UAE as it has become an official subject taught throughout Government schools, from kindergarten to Grade 12.
However, schools vary when it comes to the level of generative artificial intelligence allowed for student’s use, with some allowing the use of AI under guidance or supervision while others restrict its use completely.
Also, schools emphasize the importance of verifying information created by artificial intelligence and ensuring the privacy of personal information.
For students, the most useful approach is to treat AI as a study partner rather than a shortcut.
1. Get difficult lessons explained differently
If a textbook explanation is confusing, students can ask AI to simplify the concept, break it into steps or provide another example. They can then ask questions to check whether they have understood it rather than simply requesting an answer.
2. Turn notes into practice questions
Instead of repeatedly reading highlighted notes, students can upload their own study material and ask AI to create a quiz. Answering questions one by one can reveal which areas they actually remember and which need more revision.
3. Ask for a hint when homework becomes difficult
For maths or science, students can show AI their working and request one clue about the next step without asking for the solution. This keeps the problem-solving process with the student.
4. Use AI as an editor, not the author
Students can complete their own essay, presentation or report before asking AI to identify weaknesses. The tool can point out unclear sections or errors while leaving the student responsible for making improvements.
5. Identify revision gaps
Before creating a study timetable, students can ask AI to test their knowledge. The results can then help them spend more time on subjects or topics where they performed poorly.The key distinction is simple: AI should make students better at learning, not remove the learning itself.
