
The decline of creativity with the advent of modern technology is troubling. While human ingenuity has historically driven technological progress, these same inventions now pose a risk to the very creativity that birthed them.
The cycle is clear: humans innovate, technology advances, and later generations, overwhelmed by convenience, often fall into intellectual complacency. This trend raises important questions about the long-term effects of our reliance on technology. A striking example is the contemporary use of tools like GPT which, despite being groundbreaking, are unintentionally diminishing students’ academic skills. Rather than encouraging creative thought, these tools offer shortcuts that facilitate academic dishonesty and prevent students from reaching their full intellectual potential. This dependence on AI undermines the true essence of learning, reducing it to simple content creation instead of a journey of critical thinking and discovery.
While initiatives to detect misuse, such as AI detectors, are praiseworthy, they are not the complete answer. What students genuinely require is personal counseling and guidance on the responsible use of these tools. They need to grasp that steering clear of over-reliance on technology is not merely about avoiding detection but about safeguarding their creative spirit.
The dangers of unchecked dependence on technology far outweigh its advantages. If we do not confront these issues, the very foundation of human creativity and innovation could face irreversible harm. It is crucial to find a balance where technology enhances, rather than replaces, human intellect.
Educators, parents and policymakers should focus on this matter with urgency and foster a culture that prioritises creativity to convenience. Let us ensure that the next generation retains the spark of innovation that characterises humanity.
Sahiba Jalal
Chitral