Oxford University Press Survey Tracks Global AI Use
A new survey details how students and teachers across four countries are integrating AI chatbots into their daily academic workflows.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Distance Learning
Live Poll
Do you believe using AI chatbots for school assignments negatively impacts a student's long-term learning?
Oxford University Press surveyed learners and teachers across Brazil, Hong Kong, South Africa, and the United Kingdom regarding their adoption of AI chatbots. Findings reveal that these tools are becoming essential for both exam preparation and classroom management.
Why it matters
The integration of AI into education creates new opportunities for study support while highlighting significant disparities in digital access between regions. Understanding how these tools are utilized helps schools manage the transition toward more technology-heavy learning environments.
82% of teachers report using AI for research, while 74% use it to create resources and 56% utilize it for grading. Additionally, 18% of South African students report having no access to any digital devices, compared to 13% in the UK and 4% in Brazil.
The players
Oxford University Press
This department of the University of Oxford is one of the largest university presses in the world and publishes academic and educational content.
The details
Learners commonly employ AI chatbots as an interactive study aid and a substitute for traditional teaching methods. Educators are utilizing these technologies for administrative tasks and lesson creation, though device availability remains a critical barrier in specific regions like South Africa.
Timeline
The 2026 NSC exams began on October 13, 2026.
The 2026 NSC exams are scheduled to end on November 26, 2026.
Culture Shift
This integration of artificial intelligence follows the broader challenges of digital equity in international education as tracked by UNESCO. The data highlights a growing divide between technologically empowered classrooms and those still struggling with basic hardware access.
Students and teachers must balance the benefits of AI-assisted learning with the practical reality of device availability. Those in regions with limited hardware access may find it harder to leverage these tools for exam prep compared to peers with consistent digital resources.
The takeaway
AI is rapidly becoming an standard study aid for students preparing for major examinations. Users should ensure they verify AI-generated content to maintain academic integrity while managing their specific device limitations.
What happens next
The 2026 NSC exams are set to conclude on November 26, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in modern education by visiting the Distance Learning section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by IAfrica.
Live Poll
Do you believe using AI chatbots for school assignments negatively impacts a student's long-term learning?
