Published Paper Details:

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in enhancing problem-solving skills among secondary school students. With the rapid integration of AI in educational environments globally, the research explored not just the general impact of AI usage, but also how specific types of AI tools contribute to various dimensions of problem-solving, including problem identification, information analysis, strategy formulation, solution execution, and reflection & evaluation. A sample of 100 secondary school students was divided based on their exposure to AI tools such as Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS), Simulations, Gamified Learning Tools, Adaptive Assessment Platforms and Educational Chatbots. Quantitative analysis methods including descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis were used to assess skill development. The results revealed that students who frequently used AI tools scored significantly higher on all dimensions of problem-solving than those who did not. The strongest correlations were found between AI tool usage and strategy formulation (r = 0.658), followed by information analysis and problem identification. Regression analysis showed that ITS and Simulations were the most powerful predictors of problem-solving success, explaining over 40% of the variance in some dimensions. Gamification was especially effective for strategy building, while Simulations and Chatbots helped improve metacognitive reflection. Notably, gender-wise analysis showed no statistically significant differences in performance, although female students showed slightly higher mean scores across all dimensions. The study concluded that AI tools serve not only as instructional supports but also as cognitive partners that meaningfully enhance problem-solving skills. Based on these findings, the study recommends integrating AI-driven platforms into the secondary curriculum, training teachers in AI pedagogy, and conducting further research through longitudinal and qualitative methods. The study supports the global educational shift toward digital intelligence and personalized learning, emphasizing the critical role AI can play in preparing students for 21st-century challenges.