Study: Interest rises in AI tools in education

by Esther Wickham, The Center Square, January 1, 2026

(The Center Square) – Artificial intelligence tools for education continue to grow, according to a new study by One Click Human, a web-based platform designed to make AI-generated text sound natural and human-written. 

The study analyzed Google search data to determine where Americans are most frequently searching for terms such as Free AI essay writer, Research paper generator, AI essay, AI for assignments and AI writer. Searches were measured per 100,000 residents to account for population differences.

Hawaii ranks first nationwide, recording approximately 1,482 AI-essay-related searches per 100,000 residents. The state stands out as a clear outlier, with significantly higher interest than the rest of the country.

Delaware ranks second with just over 1,030 searches per 100,000 residents, followed by Georgia in third place at 983.

Jonas Muthoni, founder of One Click Human, said the findings reflect changing student needs rather than widespread academic dishonesty.

“What this study really shows is not that students are trying to cut corners, but that they’re looking for smarter ways to manage their workload,” Muthoni said in an email to The Center Square. “AI tools are increasingly being used as research assistants rather than replacement writers. Students are using them to understand topics faster, structure their thoughts and identify credible sources before they even begin writing.”

Muthoni said students often rely on AI to better understand topics, organize their thoughts and identify credible sources before beginning to write.

“There’s a big difference between asking an AI to write an entire essay for you and using it to brainstorm ideas, clarify complex concepts, or improve clarity,” Muthoni said. “Most students still want their work to be their own. AI simply helps them get unstuck, especially when they’re facing tight deadlines, multiple assignments, or subjects they’re unfamiliar with.”

Melissa Loble, chief academic officer at Instructure, said in her experience, AI supports teachers and educators in the classroom.

“AI can bring meaningful data use to teachers who aren’t data engineers, helping them intervene where it matters most,” Loble said. “AI can enable an environment where teachers spend more time with students, not less.”

According to the study, Alaska, Maine, New Hampshire and Wyoming all post high search rates, despite smaller populations and fewer large universities. North Dakota, Mississippi and North Carolina round out the top 10, each showing strong engagement with AI writing tools.

The data suggests that strong interest in AI writing tools is not limited to states with large student populations or major technology hubs. Alaska, Maine, New Hampshire and Wyoming all report high search rates despite smaller populations and fewer large universities. North Dakota, Mississippi, and North Carolina round out the top 10.

The study concludes that responsible AI use can support learning rather than undermine it.

“The goal shouldn’t be to ban these tools, but to guide students on how to use them ethically, as support systems rather than shortcuts,” Muthoni said. “When AI is treated like a digital study partner instead of a ghostwriter, it can enhance education rather than undermine it.”