Learning with, not from AI

Over the past year, I, like many others, started using AI tools for almost everything study-related. You see it everywhere now, especially in the library where half the screens are open to ChatGPT or some other AI assistant. It started as just experimentation for fun but then quickly became a part of how I learn and organize my day. Tools like ChatGPT have made my studdying sessions way more interactive and effective. Instead of just reading and memorizing, I can ask dumb questions, test my understanding, and get instant feedback. It feels like you have a study buddy who is always available, doesn’t get frustrated, and actually knows the material.
AI has also changed how I write. I often use it as a proofreader to check my tone, grammar, and flow before submitting essays or assignments. It helps me write more naturally and catch mistakes I’d normally miss after staring at the same page for hours. I don’t use it to fully outsource the work I need to do but use it to express my ideas more clearly and in my own style.
The most surprising use, however, happened outside of university. Over the summer, my scooter broke down. I had no clue what I was doing, so I uploaded a few photos, explained the issues to ChatGPT, and asked for help. Step by step, it guided me through what to check and which parts to replace. I didn’t need a mechanic or a manual. It actually worked, and then I realized how powerful these tools can be when used in the right way.
I’ve also seen how much it helps my brother, who has dyslexia. He uses AI to organize his emails and write responses more confidently. The speech function helps him process information faster and communicate more easily. For him, it’s convenient and gives him more independence. He can finally write out long actual coherent messages and manage tasks that used to be very time consuming for him without needing anyone’s help.
Of course, it isnt perfect. Sometimes it sounds confident while being completely wrong. Other times it gives answers that are too generic or lack proper context. For me the biggest issue for me is that it’s hard to know where the information actually comes from. If I could improve these tools, I’d add a clear “sources mode” that shows which data, process, or articles the answer is based on. It would also help if they highlighted uncertainty or bias so you would know when to double-check the information.
AI isn’t fully replacing how we learn but changing it. It makes studying more accessible and efficient. It encourages curiosity, and can sometimes even fix a broken scooter.