Balancing AI and Autonomy: The Role of AI in Enhancing Calculus Education

The rapid expansion of technology-based tools in higher education has transformed traditional learning environments, offering new opportunities and challenges. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools into mathematics education particularly has opened novel avenues for enhancing mathematics instruction. AI tools have the potential to enhance problem-solving and conceptual understanding, but their impact on students’ learning processes remains underexplored. This study examines how first-year students perceive on AI usage to scaffold learning in a calculus class. Based on students’ reflection responses, the qualitative results show that immediate verification and time-efficient feedback are the benefits of AI-generated solutions. Conversely, students who used the tool from the outset revealed overreliance, confusion, and being passive in problem-solving. The findings underscore the need of structured use of artificial intelligence to improve metacognitive vigilance and critical thinking. This article contributes to the growing discussion on artificial intelligence in education by offering feasible recommendations for instructors on including AI tools to complement rather than replace individual learning. It underlines the need of striking a balance between artificial intelligence support and motivating students’ mathematical problem-solving autonomy.