What happens when students turn to AI chatbots instead of people for connection?

In this episode of Schoolwide Download, hosts Dave Clark and Robin Szary explore The Chatbot Effect—why students are leaning on tools like Character.AI for belonging, what that says about loneliness in schools, and how educators can foster genuine connection in an AI-driven world.

You’ll hear:
✅ Why students are confiding in AI chatbots like Character.AI
✅ The risks of replacing real friendships with digital conversations
✅ How schools can restore belonging and meet students’ emotional needs
✅ Practical activities—like “The AI Effect” game—that get students reflecting on the role of AI in relationships

💡 Try This Tomorrow: Use “The AI Effect” activity with your class. Have students sort AI scenarios into categories—when it supports connection, when it erodes it, and when it depends. It’s an easy way to spark discussion and build critical thinking around AI.

Because AI isn’t going away. The challenge—and the opportunity—is making sure students still feel truly seen, supported, and connected in your classroom.

Resources & Links:
🌐 Learn more → bcesc.org/schoolwidedownload
📅 Register for the Schoolwide AI Conference → bcesc.org/schoolwideai
📖 Article referenced: ASCD – “Why Students Turn to AI for Belonging”