Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of computers or machines to simulate

human intelligence. It includes tasks such as understanding language, recognizing speech, and

analyzing images. AI functions by processing large amounts of data, identifying patterns, and

using those patterns to make predictions (Lev Craig, 2018). AI is designed to assist in problem-

solving, decision-making, and learning from experience, making it a valuable tool in various

industries (Cole Stryker, 2024).

AI has significantly transformed modern industries, changing the way people work,

interact, and process information. AI is especially effective in performing repetitive tasks that

require high attention to detail. For instance, AI can scan and analyze legal documents at a much

faster rate than humans while minimizing errors (Divyanshu Pandey, 2023).

Technology continues to change the way teaching and learning happen. In recent years,

AI has become increasingly common in education. AI-powered tools such as adaptive learning

systems, automated teaching evaluations, and virtual classrooms have been introduced to assist

both educators and students, enhancing the overall learning process (Huang et al., 2021).

At Llanera National High School, many senior high school learners have integrated AI-

powered tools into their studies. Some cmmon AI applications used include ChatGPT for writing

assistance, Photomath for solving mathematical problems, and AI-generated summaries for

reading materials. These tools provide convenience, allowing students to complete their

academic tasks more efficiently. However, concerns have been raised about whether AI fosters
independent learning or promotes overreliance, potentially weakening problem-solving and

critical thinking skills.

For example, while AI tools help students in organizing research work, they cannot

replace the need for comprehension and analysis. This highlights the importance of studying AI’s

impact on education, not just as a convenient tool but as something that should encourage deeper

engagement with academic content. Although AI is becoming more popular in education, Chen

(2022) points out that there is still a lack of large-scale research exploring its direct impact on

students’ learning experiences. Given these concerns, this study aims to analyze how AI affects

the academic performance of senior high school learners at Llanera National High School. By

examining both its benefits and challenges, this research seeks to provide valuable insights into

the effective and responsible use of AI in education.

The increasing presence of AI in education brings both opportunities and challenges. AI

has the potential to revolutionize learning by offering personalized feedback, automating

assessments, and enhancing student engagement. However, it is crucial to assess its real impact

on learners, particularly at the senior high school level.

While AI can provide instant assistance in academic tasks, it may also reduce students’

efforts in problem-solving and independent learning. For example, students using AI-generated

solutions may struggle to understand core concepts, leading to gaps in knowledge. Additionally,

educators and institutions are still adapting to AI advancements, with many unsure of how to

integrate AI effectively into classrooms.

This study is significant because it aims to evaluate whether AI truly benefits students or

simply makes academic tasks easier without fostering actual learning. By conducting this
research, we can better understand how AI can be utilized as a tool for enhancement rather than a

substitute for independent learning.

This study will be conducted at Llanera National High School, which is located in

Barangay Bagumbayan, Municipality of Llanera, Nueva Ecija. The school is situated in a rural

area, surrounded by vast agricultural fields, and benefits from an irrigation system. The research

will focus on senior high school learners, specifically Grade 11 students, within the school

premises. By conducting the study within the school, the research findings will accurately reflect

real academic experiences and AI usage in an educational setting.

AI’s role in education has been widely studied, with researchers highlighting both its

benefits and challenges. Ouyang and Jiao (2021) state that AI in education (AIEd) provides new

opportunities by offering personalized learning experiences and enabling students to track their

academic progress. Adaptive AI platforms allow students to receive real-time feedback and tailor

their study methods to suit their learning styles. However, despite these benefits, AI cannot

replace the importance of teacher-student interactions and hands-on learning experiences.

Academic performance is influenced by multiple factors beyond AI. Kapur (2018)

explains that school-related factors such as class size, parental involvement, and access to

resources, as well as external factors such as financial stability, play a crucial role in students’

academic success. While AI tools may assist learners, they cannot address these fundamental

issues that impact education.

A major concern regarding AI use in education is academic dishonesty. AI-powered

applications such as ChatGPT can generate written responses instantly, making it easier for

students to submit work without fully understanding the material. Adeshola and Adepoju (2024)
emphasize that AI-generated content poses a new challenge in maintaining academic integrity,

prompting schools to implement stricter policies and develop AI-detection tools to prevent

cheating.

At the same time, AI applications have been found to enhance learning when used

correctly. A study by Kusi et al. (2025) found that PhotoMath significantly improved students’

ability to solve mathematical equations, demonstrating AI’s effectiveness in supporting

mathematical education. However, students who relied too much on the application struggled

when asked to solve similar problems without AI assistance. Similarly, Tabora et al. (2024) found

that AI-based learning systems require proper teacher training and further research to ensure they

enhance rather than hinder independent learning.

Academic struggles are common among students, with many facing difficulties in

multiple subjects (Davis, 2021). As education evolves, AI-based platforms are being considered a

potential solution for enhancing student performance. Abu Laban (2018) argues that AI platforms

can improve student assessments, decision-making skills, and reasoning abilities, making them

valuable tools for academic innovation.

However, concerns remain regarding how AI affects students’ ability to think

independently and develop problem-solving skills. While AI-based knowledge systems and

supervised machine learning techniques have been introduced to improve assessments and

personalize feedback (Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Capsule Networks, 2019), their

effectiveness depends on how they are integrated into the learning process. If students become

too reliant on AI-generated answers, they may struggle with critical thinking, creativity, and in-

depth analysis, skills that are essential for long-term academic success.
 With the increasing use of AI in education, it is necessary to examine whether AI tools

contribute positively to academic success or promote excessive dependence on technology.

Understanding this balance is crucial to ensuring that AI serves as a helpful learning tool rather

than a substitute for genuine effort and intellectual engagement. Addressing these concerns will

help educators and policymakers develop strategies for responsible AI use that enhances, rather

than hinders, the learning experience.

This research aims to evaluate the impact of artificial intelligence tools on the academic

performance of senior high school learners at Llanera National High School. The study will

assess how AI-powered tools influence students’ grades, engagement, and study habits. It will

also seek to identify the advantages and challenges of AI in education, particularly in how it

affects independent learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Furthermore, this study will explore the extent to which AI tools contribute to learning

improvement and whether they create long-term benefits for students. By examining these

aspects, the research will determine how AI can be used responsibly and effectively while

ensuring that students maintain active participation in their academic development. Additionally,

this study will look at ways to integrate AI into education without compromising academic

integrity.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of AI in improving academic performance

and transforming the learning process. This research seeks to determine whether AI tools provide

a more efficient, accessible, and engaging educational experience, or if they present risks such as

overreliance, reduced motivation, and academic dishonesty.

administrators, and students on how to responsibly incorporate AI into the learning process. This

research will serve as a foundation for understanding the best practices for AI use in education,

ensuring that AI tools remain a support system rather than a replacement for critical thinking and

independent learning.

Ultimately, this study will contribute to the ongoing discussion on AI’s role in shaping the

future of education by identifying effective strategies for AI integration while addressing the

challenges and ethical concerns associated with its use. Through this research, we hope to

promote a learning environment where AI is used responsibly, ethically, and productively to

support the academic success of senior high school learners at Llanera National High School.