Across 91 countries, study says AI may be making an 'entire generation less capable'

A new warning about teens' academic skills is raising questions about how heavy tech use, and especially the use of artificial intelligence, may be reshaping how young people learn.

Across 91 countries and economies, 15-year-olds scored at some of the weakest levels yet recorded in reading, math, and science, based on a major international benchmark.

Here's what to know

Last week, the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development, or OECD, released the results of its fifth Program for International Student Assessment. The organization describes the report, also known as PISA, as "the world's largest international comparative survey of 15-year-old students."

As highlighted by the Economic Times, the OECD's PISA 2025 data show widespread declines in student achievement. Across 91 countries and economies, the study drew on more than 760,000 students, reflecting about 33 million 15-year-olds. According to the report, results indicated "the lowest average levels of performance ever observed in science, reading, and mathematics."

The organization, which has reported declining scores for the past 20 years, did not link the latest lower scores to AI alone, and "moderate" use may not negatively impact performance. Meanwhile, an OECD release said that "higher-performing students tend to be those who do not use artificial intelligence."

More background

Weak reading and math skills can follow young people into adulthood, affecting their creativity, job prospects, wages, and even their ability to make informed decisions about everyday life.

When students struggle academically, parents may also face higher tutoring costs, more stress at home, and fewer future opportunities for their children.

Meanwhile, declining skill levels can strain economies and communities by reducing the number of people prepared for critical roles.

The OECD noted in its release that its assessment indicates "reading skills have declined most in areas linked to critical thinking, including evaluating evidence and distinguishing fact from opinion."

The organization said AI use may be linked with "better learning outcomes" when young people are educated on "how to interpret and assess AI-generated information." Meanwhile, its 2029 report is set to review media and AI literacy specifically.

What can be done?

One practical response is to ensure that AI does not replace core curriculum or problem-solving practice.

Schools and policymakers have a major role to play, from setting thoughtful AI-use rules to reinforcing foundational reading and numeracy skills. At home, families can help too.

Measures might include having students show their work in math, encouraging independent reading, setting screen-free homework blocks, and treating AI as a tool for checking understanding rather than generating answers from scratch.

Where can I learn more?

Concerns about teen learning go beyond test scores. AI is already changing what childhood looks like, and, as these stories show, many may have reason to be concerned that exposure at home and early in life could affect how children develop, focus, and thrive:

• Experts warn childhood is being reshaped as AI spreads through daily life.

• New York City and Los Angeles public school systems ban generative AI use for the school year as fears intensify.

• Rich parents are paying $75,000 for AI school, and ex-staff say kids are "guinea pigs."

Digital habits and environments can shape young minds. Keeping that bigger picture in mind may help families make clearer decisions about what supports learning and healthy development, while researchers and policymakers recommend safeguards to keep pace with the tech roll-out.

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