Summary
A study by MIT found that using AI chatbots like ChatGPT can reduce brain activity linked to thinking and problem-solving. People using AI for tasks like writing essays showed less ability to recall their work without AI assistance. Other studies, including one by Carnegie Mellon University and Microsoft, suggested that relying too much on AI could weaken critical thinking skills over time.
Key Facts
- MIT researchers studied brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG) on people using AI tools.
- Participants using ChatGPT had less brain activity in areas related to thinking and problem-solving.
- People who used AI struggled more to recall information from essays they wrote.
- Studies warn that overconfidence in AI tools might reduce critical thinking efforts.
- Carnegie Mellon University and Microsoft found over-reliance on AI could weaken problem-solving skills.
- Oxford University Press surveyed UK schoolchildren, finding some felt AI impacted their learning skills negatively.
- However, Dr. Alexandra Tomescu noted many students reported AI helped them develop skills like creativity and problem-solving.
- ChatGPT has over 800 million weekly active users.
