AI and the Future of Teaching and Learning

As generative AI rapidly reshapes classrooms around the globe, educators and decisionmakers are grappling with a major concern: How can generative AI be used to help, not harm, teaching and learning? What is the role of technology in the classroom?

This past January, the Center for Universal Education at Brookings released the report “A new direction for students in an AI world: Prosper, prepare, protect,” alongside the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s “OECD Digital Education Outlook 2026.” These two reports examine how generative AI is being used in education today and what it could mean for the future of teaching and learning. The reports find that AI can be a powerful tool to support students and teachers when used narrowly with thoughtful design. However, widespread use of general purpose AI tools can diminish student learning and development.

On June 29, the Center for Universal Education at Brookings will host a conversation on the ways in which technology, including AI, impacts teaching, learning, and ultimately student development. Led by author and education technology veteran Michael B. Horn, this discussion will explore when AI helps students succeed and where it falls short in the modern digital age.