The increasing reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT is fundamentally altering how students approach their education, and the consequences are beginning to show. While these tools offer convenience, they also pose a significant risk to student learning. Instead of engaging critically with their assignments, many students now opt to let AI handle the heavy lifting, creating a dependency that can slow down intellectual development.
Recent studies reveal that approximately 15% of younger students and a staggering 53% of older students are now using AI assistance for academic tasks. This growing dependence raises serious questions about the future of education. Recently, an incident occurred at Texas A&M University, in which diplomas were withheld after a professor used AI to evaluate student submissions. This case has raised questions on the ethical dilemmas that arise from over-reliance on AI. What makes this trend particularly concerning is that it threatens the very foundation of intellectual growth. Critical thinking, problem-solving and creativity are core competencies that students must develop to succeed not just in academics, but in their future careers. If AI becomes the default tool for completing assignments, students may lose the opportunity to hone these essential skills. Without the ability to think independently and generate creative solutions, students risk entering the workforce unprepared for the challenges ahead.
Left unchecked, AI will also create a gap between students who actively engage in their learning and those who utilise technology. This divide may widen as AI tools become more sophisticated, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities in education. Students who have access to advanced AI technology may find it easier to complete their assignments, while those without may struggle to keep up.
Uzair Baloch
Hub
