The AI Tutor: Can Artificial Intelligence Improve Student Learning?
Students using AI to cheat on homework or tests is a source of much discussion. However, some scholars argue the greater risk of students using AI is that they will simply not learn. Meanwhile, approximately 90% of 1,100 U.S. students surveyed at two-year and four-year colleges in 2025 reported using generative AI for everything from drafting assignments to clarifying complex concepts.
Therefore, it’s essential to examine the impact of AI on student learning. For example, when students use AI as a tutor or study partner, not as an immediate answer generator, does it make it easier or harder for them to learn? Additionally, we must consider the potential benefits of AI in education.
Designing an AI Tool for Learning
We are economists who tried to answer this question by designing an AI tool using ChatGPT’s custom GPT feature, with the web access of the chatbot disabled. We named the tool Macro Buddy and trained it to guide some students at one of our undergraduate macroeconomics classes at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, through their reasoning rather than giving them direct answers.
Furthermore, our research, conducted in spring 2025, found that students who used Macro Buddy, alongside peer discussion, earned higher exam scores than students who worked alone, without this AI tutor. However, it’s crucial to understand how Macro Buddy works and its potential to improve student learning.
How Macro Buddy Works
Macro Buddy is designed to assist students in their learning process, rather than providing them with direct answers. For instance, it can help students clarify complex concepts, provide guidance on assignments, and facilitate peer discussion. Moreover, Macro Buddy can help students develop critical thinking skills, which are essential for academic success.
Meanwhile, our research showed that students who used Macro Buddy had a better understanding of macroeconomic concepts and were able to apply them more effectively. Additionally, the AI tool helped students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to focus on areas where they needed improvement.
The Benefits of AI in Education
The use of AI in education can have numerous benefits, including personalized learning, improved student outcomes, and increased efficiency. However, it’s essential to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. For example, AI should be used to supplement teaching, rather than replace it.
Furthermore, AI can help teachers to identify areas where students need additional support, allowing them to provide targeted guidance. Additionally, AI can facilitate peer discussion and collaboration, which are essential for student learning. Therefore, it’s crucial to explore the potential of AI in education and its ability to improve student learning.
Conclusion and Future Directions
In conclusion, our research suggests that AI can be a valuable tool in education, particularly when used as a tutor or study partner. However, it’s essential to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. Therefore, we recommend that educators and policymakers explore the potential of AI in education and its ability to improve student learning.
Finally, we believe that AI has the potential to revolutionize education, making it more personalized, efficient, and effective. However, it’s crucial to address the challenges associated with AI in education, including ensuring that AI is used responsibly and ethically. By doing so, we can harness the power of AI to improve student learning and achieve better academic outcomes.
