by Nataliya Kosmyna, et. al
June, 2025 | arXiv
As AI transforms education, the challenge is clear: how can we leverage its power without compromising students’ ability to think critically?
While AI offers efficiency and innovation, emerging research highlights a hidden risk: students who rely too heavily on AI may skip key cognitive steps, weakening their higher-order thinking skills.
Findings from Your Brain on ChatGPT: Accumulation of Cognitive Debt when Using an AI Assistant for Essay Writing Task indicate that overusing AI can erode critical thinking—the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information—potentially affecting success in both academic and professional settings.
Want to ensure your students develop strong higher-order skills?
At CAE, we help higher education institutions guide students to use AI as a tool for deeper learning, not a shortcut around it. Our Critical Thinking Skills Program embeds practice and assessment throughout the curriculum, giving students the tools to:
- Use AI responsibly and ethically.
- Strengthen critical thinking, written communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Enter the workforce ready to think for themselves, adapt, and tackle complex challenges.
