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Google Lens on Chromebooks raises concern among teachers as it reduces critical thinking in students.
Google Lens, which was introduced in 2017, allows users quickly identify objects, translate text, and perform visual searches, but teachers are concerned about its effect on learning as it becomes more common in classrooms. Chromebooks are used by millions in California, and AI tools like Lens helps them avoid the traditional instruction in the classroom. After a Lens update, Dustin Stevenson, a high school English teacher in Los Angeles, noticed a sudden improvement in his students' grades.
Stevenson highlighted how AI can improve results without real learning by saying, "Students who struggled all semester suddenly started scoring well in tests." High school ethnic studies teacher William Heuisler went back to using pencil and paper as he found Chromebooks is very distracting. "Is it possible to succeed in life without understanding how to write or convey information yourself? I hope not, but I'm not sure," he remarked.
These concerns are supported by research. According to a Massachusetts Institute of Technology study, students who used AI to compose essays showed 55% less brain activity than those who did not, suggesting that excess AI use could affect ability to think critically. To find a balance between usage of computers and learning responsibility, L.A. Unified keeps Google Lens on student laptops with limitations: kids are allowed to use it after completing a digital awareness class. Classrooms may transform into advanced learning labs where AI supports students to access content quickly and improve their creativity, ability to solve problems and thinking.
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