Ai in schools: a double-edged sword for student learning

The rising presence of ai in education

Artificial intelligence is rapidly permeating various facets of our lives, and education is no exception. From smartphones to educational apps, ai tools like ChatGPT are becoming increasingly accessible to students. However, the crucial question isn't if students will use ai, but rather the impact it has on their learning when they outsource significant cognitive tasks to these tools. Expert José Escamilla, Director of the Institute for the Future of Education at Tec de Monterrey, highlights a concerning trend: relying on ai for homework risks weakening the “cognitive muscle” that schools are designed to develop.

Past tech revolutions and the ai difference

Escamilla draws a parallel to previous technological advancements in education, such as calculators and simulators. These tools initially freed students from tedious calculations, allowing them to focus on more complex concepts. The key difference with generative ai lies in its capabilities. It doesn’t just perform calculations; it summarizes text, writes essays, proposes arguments, and even critiques ideas – essentially taking over many cognitive processes.

Cognitive offloading and potential deficits

This delegation of tasks leads to what Escamilla calls “cognitive offloading,” where mental effort shifts to the machine. If this becomes habitual, it can result in “cognitive deficit.” Students may then stop practicing fundamental skills in comprehension, synthesis, and writing, leading to increased reliance on ai assistance. This dependence can create a cycle of diminishing cognitive abilities.

Early research and emerging concerns

Initial studies, including those conducted at MIT, suggest changes in neuronal connections in young people who heavily utilize AI for studying. While not definitive, these findings align with observations from teachers who notice less effort and increased reliance on “copy and paste” techniques. Furthermore, AI models often perpetuate biases present in their training data, reinforcing gender, racial, or professional stereotypes, leading to skewed perspectives.

The echo chamber effect and limited creativity

The tendency to accept the first AI-generated response without critical evaluation also contributes to an “echo chamber” effect. This limits exposure to diverse viewpoints and stifles creativity. A lack of varied approaches to problem-solving can hinder the development of well-rounded critical thinking skills, a cornerstone of effective learning.

Leveraging ai's potential in the classroom

Despite the concerns, Escamilla isn’t advocating for a complete ban on AI in education. He identifies several beneficial uses. One is creating question-and-answer assistants based on course materials, available 24/7. AI can also generate examples, exercises, and case studies tailored to different learning levels, and offer feedback on assignments. Crucially, he emphasizes the need for educators to take responsibility for the AI's output, ensuring it supplements, rather than replaces, their role.

Integrating ai: zones of freedom and focused effort

Escamilla suggests a balanced approach: establishing “AI-free zones” alongside areas where its use is permitted. Students can use AI freely in some activities, while others require independent work. This approach allows for experimentation while still demanding critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Adapting education for the ai era

In higher education, the challenge is even greater. Universities must reassess what students need to learn, given the widespread availability of AI tools. Professionals like doctors, architects, and journalists will work alongside AI, but they need the critical judgment to use it effectively. Continuous professional development will become essential to keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscape.

Addressing inequality and fostering critical thinking

Escamilla also highlights the potential for AI to exacerbate existing inequalities. If some students critically engage with AI while others passively accept its responses, the gap in thinking abilities will widen. Education should strive to level the playing field, not reinforce disparities. Ultimately, he stresses that AI is neither a panacea nor a threat, but a tool that requires careful and considered integration.