International study explores teacher enthusiasm and uncertainty with AI in the classroom

Teachers across the globe are embracing AI in the classroom, but many still feel underprepared, under-trained, and uncertain about the rules that govern its use. That’s according to Futuresource Consulting’s new EdTech Voice report series, based on 1,143 in-depth interviews with teachers, curriculum leads and department heads across Europe, the USA and emerging markets. 

“This research brings together voices from every corner of the education landscape,” says Natalie Tapera, Lead Analyst at Futuresource Consulting. “What we’re hearing is a mix of optimism and caution. Teachers can see the time-saving and creative potential of AI, but they also want clearer guidance, better training, and the confidence that students won’t lose sight of the human connections that make learning effective.” 

Teachers embracing AI at scale

Across all surveyed markets, the majority of teachers are already using AI for professional tasks, with adoption climbing year-on-year. Lesson planning and content creation remain the most common applications, but teachers are beginning to experiment with more advanced tools, from personalised assignments to AI-assisted grading and administration. 

AI training is the key to confidence

The single biggest factor shaping teacher confidence is training. In countries where teachers have received structured, regular training, confidence levels and breadth of use are significantly higher. Where training is limited, teachers are often left to experiment with open-market tools, resulting in less positive impact and more uncertainty. 

A patchwork of regulation

The surveys show that policy and regulation vary widely. Some countries are introducing national guidelines and stronger school-level rules, often driven by parental pressure, while others are lagging behind with unclear frameworks. Teachers consistently highlight the need for safeguards, particularly around plagiarism and student reliance on AI to do the work for them. 

Concerns shared across borders

Despite cultural and regulatory differences, teachers around the world share many of the same worries: that AI could fuel academic dishonesty, reduce collaboration, or weaken the human bond between teacher and student. At the same time, there is broad agreement that AI is here to stay and harnessing it responsibly is the real challenge. 

The importance of devices and infrastructure

Hardware also plays a role in shaping teacher experience, but access remains uneven across regions. For many schools, investment in devices is now viewed as inseparable from investment in teaching quality. 

A global education market in transition

“Teachers are telling us they don’t see AI as a threat,” says Tapera. “They see it as a powerful tool, but only if they’re given the necessary support. Across the globe, the message is clear. AI adoption in education is about training, trust, and the frameworks that allow teachers to focus on inspiring students and helping them to achieve their full potential.” 

The latest EdTech Voice AI Teacher Surveys combine findings from emerging markets, Europe and the USA, based on 1,143 teacher interviews. To learn more or purchase the reports, please contact Daniel at daniel.perman@futuresource-hq.com.

About Futuresource Consulting 

Futuresource Consulting is a leading research and consulting firm with over 20 years of EdTech expertise. Its EdTech Voice series captures teacher sentiment and frontline experience through structured interviews, offering unique insights into how technology is shaping education in practice. 

Press Contact: Nicola Finn, Marketing Manager, Futuresource Consulting, nicola.finn@futuresource-hq.com