KARMA CHOGYAL YOEZER | Thimphu
Not long ago, students relied mainly on textbooks, classroom notes and hours of searching online to complete assignments or prepare for exams. Today, many Bhutanese students have added another study companion to that list, artificial intelligence.
Whether it is explaining a difficult mathematics problem, simplifying a research article or helping organize revision notes, AI powered tools are becoming a regular part of how students learn.
Instead of replacing traditional study methods, many students say the technology helps them learn more efficiently and gives them confidence when tackling challenging subjects.
For many, AI has become the first place they turn when they get stuck. Sunil Moktan, a university student from Norbu Rigter College in Paro said, “I don’t use AI to do my homework”. “I use it when I don’t understand something from class. Sometimes I ask the same question in different ways until it finally makes sense” he added.
He added that AI is particularly useful because it explains concepts without making them feel embarrassed for asking basic questions.
Another college student Tenzin Chophel from Royal Thimphu College said the technology has significantly reduced the time spent looking for information.
“Before, I had to open so many websites just to find one clear answer,” the student said. “Now I can ask one question and get an explanation almost instantly. It makes studying much less frustrating.”
Many students say AI has become especially useful during examination periods. Besides answering questions, they use it to create mock tests, prepare flashcards, summarize long chapters and develop study schedules that match their learning pace.
Another student Rigden Dorji from Sherubtse College in Kanglungdescribed it as having a study partner that is available whenever needed.
“If I’m studying late at night and get confused about a topic, I don’t have to wait until the next day to ask someone,” Rigden Dorji said. “I can keep learning without stopping.”
The technology is also proving valuable for students who struggle with academic writing. Some use AI to improve grammar, organize ideas or rewrite paragraphs more clearly after completing their own drafts.
“Sometimes I know what I want to say, but I can’t put it into good academic writing,” another student said. “AI helps me improve my work, but I still go through everything carefully before submitting it.” he added
While students appreciate the convenience, many are also aware that AI is not always correct.
“I’ve seen it give wrong information and even make up references,” Dorji Tshering from Samtse College of Education said. “That’s why I always check important facts with books or other trusted sources.”
Teachers share a similar view. They acknowledge that AI can make learning easier but believe students must use it responsibly.
“AI is a useful learning tool, but it should never replace the effort students put into understanding a subject,” said a teacher from Loselling MSS. “Learning happens when students question ideas, solve problems and think for themselves.”
Another teacher from Wangbama CS in Thimphu worries that excessive dependence on AI could affect students’ ability to think critically.
“If students copy answers without understanding them, they may finish an assignment, but they won’t develop the skills they need later in life,” she said. “Technology should support learning, not do the thinking for them.”
That perspective reflects a growing awareness among students that while AI can make learning more convenient, genuine education still depends on curiosity, discipline and personal effort.
