As AI tools like ChatGPT become increasingly popular, educators and researchers are raising concerns about their effects on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Studies suggest that overreliance on generative AI could diminish cognitive engagement, though the picture remains nuanced.

A study by MIT used electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity while 54 participants used ChatGPT to draft essays. Researchers found lower activity in networks associated with cognitive processing compared to those who wrote independently. Participants also struggled to recall information from their AI-assisted essays, highlighting potential impacts on learning retention.

Similarly, research by Carnegie Mellon University and Microsoft surveyed 319 white-collar workers using AI weekly. The study found that higher confidence in AI’s capabilities often corresponded with less critical thinking effort, potentially reducing independent problem-solving skills over time. UK schoolchildren surveyed by Oxford University Press reported mixed experiences: six in 10 said AI negatively affected their skills, but nine in 10 acknowledged it helped develop at least one school-related skill such as problem-solving, creativity, or revision.

Experts emphasize responsible use. Jayna Devani of OpenAI stresses that AI should act as a tutor, breaking down questions to aid understanding, rather than replacing human effort. Prof Wayne Holmes of University College London warns that while AI can improve outputs, it may harm learning if students rely on it too heavily.

The consensus among researchers is that more independent studies are needed to assess AI’s impact on education. Users should remain aware of how AI generates answers and verifies outputs to ensure tools enhance learning rather than diminish fundamental cognitive skills.

In short, AI can accelerate learning when used strategically, but uncritical dependence risks “better outputs, worse learning.”

Source: BBC