UAE: 94% students use AI tools to study but many experience tech-related stress

Khaleej Times

12-03-2025

94 per cent of students in the UAE use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for studying, but many report experiencing tech-related stress.
That's according to the latest research from Studiosity's Student Wellbeing Report, conducted by YouGov, which elaborates that around two-thirds of students face stress linked to AI, with 70 per cent of UAE students expecting AI support tools from their schools or universities, the highest expectation globally.
The stress stems from concerns such as the possibility of AI providing incorrect information, fear of plagiarism accusations or violating university rules, and worries about potential data leaks.
Baz Nijjar, Vice President – Education Technology and Digital Innovation, GEMS Education, said, 'Workshops and training sessions led by staff in our schools and external partners such as Microsoft, HP, and Intel are focused on ensuring students understand how and when to use AI to support their personal needs. Our working groups, which include teachers and students, are researching on where best to incorporate AI literacy into our curriculum, ensuring students understand how AI works and how to use it responsibly, thereby reducing any potential anxiety associated with the unknown or fear of missing out.​'
He added, 'Our schools are well-versed in offering counselling and support services to help students manage stress, and this is extended to technology cases where required.'
Understanding pain points
As far as possible, schools often involve parents in the learning process, providing them with resources and workshops to understand AI tools, so that they can support their children's learning journey effectively.​
Schools heads also reiterated that AI tools have the potential to significantly enrich students' learning by offering personalised and adaptive educational experiences.
'For instance, adaptive learning systems utilise AI to tailor educational content to individual student needs, promoting more effective learning outcomes. However, we acknowledge that the integration of AI is not without challenges. Concerns such as AI-assisted plagiarism and the potential for over-reliance on technology are valid and require proactive mitigation measures, as well as the need to train students on when and how to use AI effectively and ethically.'
Equitable access to AI tools
In an era where technology is reshaping education, experts highlighted the importance of equitable access to AI tools across institutions.
Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity, says: 'When students have equitable access to tools provided by their university, they know they are approved for use and appropriate for use in a learning environment. Not only does this reduce stress levels around inappropriate or unsafe use of AI tools, but it also means that students can equitably access the same AI-powered resources, regardless of their study mode, background, or preferences.'
School leaders emphasised that the solution lies not in avoidance but in education and awareness. It's crucial to teach students how, when, and why to use AI effectively, ensuring it becomes a helpful tool rather than a source of anxiety.
Abhilasha Singh Principal, Shining Star International, earlier said, 'We have AI as a skill-based subject in Middle school because by then their understanding is evolved. AI is here to stay and is going to be a part of our lives. So, bringing this awareness to children is important. It is a part of our curriculum. We also have a responsibility to prepare our students for future job market. We can't ignore it so we better adopt it. But there is a lot of ethics involved around it. Academic integrity is important.'
'I also support the use of AI technology for teachers as it assists with lesson preparation, making the process more time-efficient,' she added.