From the Student Seat: How Learners Are Actually Using NotebookLM

As NotebookLM becomes increasingly integrated into Google Classroom, many educators are asking a practical question: How are students actually using this tool to learn? This session shifts the lens from teacher speculation to student experience. Co-presented with two high school students, this workshop centers authentic student voice to explore real-world NotebookLM use in coursework. Students will share how they are using NotebookLM to study, organize sources, and make sense of complex content — including an AP Human Geography use case — highlighting both the benefits and limitations they’ve encountered. Rather than positioning NotebookLM as a productivity shortcut, this session frames it as a learning support tool and invites educators to consider how guided use, norms, and AI literacy shape meaningful outcomes. Participants will engage in facilitated discussion, reflect on implications for classroom practice, and explore how student-teacher partnerships can inform responsible AI integration. Attendees will leave with clearer insight into how NotebookLM is being used from the learner’s perspective and concrete ideas for supporting thoughtful, ethical, and transparent student use.