Generative AI in K-12: Opportunities for Learning and Utility for Teachers

The goal of education is to develop natural intelligence. How are teachers using generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to support this goal? The aim of this study is to understand how teachers have changed their teaching practices due to GenAI, their real use of GenAI in learning activities, and how they have utilised these tools to make their work more efficient. A nationwide survey was conducted among all Estonian K-12 schools. A total of 908 teachers completed the survey - a representative sample of more than 5% of Estonian K-12 teachers. The results show that 49% of teachers have already modified their teaching processes by including tasks that encourage critical thinking, eliminating written homework, and allowing the use of GenAI to generate new ideas, to name a few. In addition, 74% of teachers are using GenAI to make their work more efficient (e.g. answering emails from parents). Finally, there are various concerns and challenges, and the majority of educators are looking for professional development on the practical integration of GenAI into teaching practice.