More than eight in ten Indian students are concerned that artificial intelligence (AI) tools, while helping them complete academic tasks faster, may be limiting their ability to understand subjects in depth, according to the HP Futures 2026 report.
The study found that 82% of Indian respondents expressed concerns about the impact of AI-assisted learning on deeper comprehension, highlighting a distinction between completing assignments efficiently and retaining academic knowledge.
The report was developed by HP in collaboration with the Global Learning Council and the Education Leaders Forum. It surveyed more than 6,000 students across 37 countries, including 758 respondents from India, and incorporated perspectives from 58 international leaders in education, public policy and workforce development.
Despite the increasing availability of AI-generated summaries and digital learning tools, traditional study methods continue to hold importance among Indian students.
According to the findings, 42% preferred printed materials or handwritten notes when studying for better retention, compared with 17% who favoured AI-generated summaries.
The results indicate that students are distinguishing between tools that accelerate academic work and methods they consider useful for understanding and remembering information.
However, concerns about learning outcomes have not translated into widespread pessimism about AI's role in employment.
More than three-quarters of Indian respondents believed artificial intelligence would create more career opportunities than it eliminates. Additionally, 87% expressed confidence in their ability to use AI tools responsibly in professional environments.
The survey also found that 92% believed their current educational curriculum was adequately preparing them for future employment requirements.
When identifying the capabilities most relevant to the future workplace, 52% of respondents selected AI and digital literacy.
Human-centred skills also featured prominently, with creativity identified by 48%, critical thinking by 41%, and communication and collaboration by 36%.
The findings suggest that students recognise the importance of technological proficiency alongside capabilities that require independent reasoning, communication and problem-solving.
David McQuarrie, Chief Commercial Officer at HP and Chair of HP Futures, emphasised the shared responsibility of educators, policymakers and employers in preparing young people for technological changes.
He highlighted the need for education systems to strengthen foundational capabilities that remain relevant as workplace technologies evolve.
Mayank Dhingra, Director and Global Head of Education Business and Strategy at HP, noted that concerns about surface-level comprehension should inform discussions around curriculum design and institutional assessment.
The findings come as educational institutions increasingly examine how AI tools can be incorporated into teaching, assignments and assessment practices without reducing opportunities for independent learning.
While the survey reflects student perceptions rather than independently measured changes in academic performance, it identifies an emerging challenge for education providers.
As AI becomes more integrated into learning environments, institutions face the task of balancing faster access to information with the development of deeper understanding and skills relevant to future employment.
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