Google study shows teens positive about AI

Google's The Future Report surveyed over 7,000 teenagers aged 13 to 18 across France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Spain and Sweden about their use of AI and engagement with digital platforms.

According to the report, 40% of young people surveyed use AI tools daily or almost daily, and the majority use them several times a week for learning and creative activities such as schoolwork, content production and language learning.

Most respondents said AI has been helpful in explaining complex topics (47%), providing instant feedback (42%) and making learning more engaging (38%); 81% of users reported that AI improved one or more aspects of their learning or creativity 'somewhat' or 'greatly', the report said. The survey found 57% of young people discover new topics daily or almost daily, with algorithmic recommendations cited by 27%, content shared by friends by 24% and active searching by 19%. Fifty-six percent said personalised recommendations help uncover 'genuinely interesting content'.

"AI is one of humanity’s greatest tools for self-improvement," said a 16-year-old from Italy. Participants also expressed reservations, warning AI might "partly replace thinking skills", cause them to "develop worse skills" and that it "shouldn't do the thinking for you".

The report calls for increased focus on digital literacy, safety, age-appropriate experiences and fostering digital balance rather than restricting access, the report said. Brian O'Neill, the author of the commentary, is the Policy Lead for the Better Internet for Kids programme, which is coordinated by European Schoolnet (EUN) on behalf of the European Commission, and a member of the Council of Europe’s Expert Group on Digital Citizenship Education.

The Recap

• Google surveyed over seven thousand teenagers in seven European countries.
• Forty percent of respondents use AI daily or almost daily.
• The report calls for digital literacy, safety, and balanced experiences.