Subjective AI decision-making significance (SAID) in high-school students

A study explored how high school students perceive and utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their daily decision-making processes, introducing and initially validating the concept of Subjective AI Decision-making Significance (SAID). The research involved an online survey of 197 Austrian students, measuring SAID through scenarios developed with stakeholders, alongside attitudes towards AI, self-efficacy, and subjective health.

Why it matters

Understanding how young individuals perceive and integrate AI into their decision-making is critical for anticipating future societal shifts and workforce capabilities. This insight informs the development of educational strategies and digital literacy programs to ensure responsible and effective AI engagement across demographics.

Key insights

• The study investigates the perceptions and use of AI by high school students in everyday decision-making.
• A novel phenomenon, Subjective AI Decision-making Significance (SAID), was introduced and underwent initial validation.
• The methodology involved an online survey of 197 Austrian students using decision-making scenarios co-developed with stakeholders.
• Measurements included attitudes toward AI, self-efficacy, and subjective physical and mental health.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1922560