Artificial intelligence has recently become more critical in the development of students during their educational careers. Whilst traditional learning involves students being actively engaged, creating their own notes and quizzes to prepare for exams and assignments, they are now opting for a ‘simpler’ and less time-consuming approach: using Generative AI to eliminate repetitive tasks.
In a world of developing technology, it’s easy to find tools for learning. Many students rely on applications such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and even Obsidian to help them with class work, assignments and exam preparation.
Many lecturers around the world encourage the use of AI, as long as the large language models (LLMs) are cited. The benefits are certainly prolific; time management, writing skills and understanding become easier and less time-consuming when inputting a prompt gives you the perfect plan. However, many researchers are concerned that these benefits can be over-relied on, which may negatively impact students when Generative AI is unavailable to assist.
Chunpeng Zhai mentions in his article, “The effects of over-reliance on AI dialogue systems on students’ cognitive abilities: a systematic review”, how both benefits and drawbacks are explored with Artificial Intelligence. People become hooked on Artificial Intelligence because, as previously mentioned, it eliminates repetitive tasks, allowing for more personal time. Many researchers, including Zhai, have raised concerns about the over-reliance of students on AI, which can potentially diminish cognitive skills, such as critical and analytical thinking. Users are unlikely to fact-check data provided by GenAI, assuming it is correct by default. Already, students are foregoing their basic skills of fact-checking, trusting an LLM over their own research.
Reliance on AI also worries researchers about students’ motivation and commitment to their tasks when relying on these models for answers instead of engaging in the learning process. This can eventually lead to the loss of originality, as the challenge of learning is understanding. Although AI tools can aid decision-making and efficiency, they can also lead to reduced cognitive skills when students rely too heavily on AI content.
Whether a fan or not of Generative AI, you cannot deny the effect it has on the climate crisis. Every input made into the models affects the large data centres around the world. Along with data centres, the maintenance of machines requires an output, which involves water in the lengthy process of cooling them down as it flows through the centres. According to the CNN editor Kameryn Griesser, to find out how much each prompt you give damages the earth, “researchers in Germany tested 14 large language model (LLM) AI systems by asking them both free-response and multiple-choice questions. Complex questions produced up to six times more carbon dioxide emissions than questions with concise answers.”
Overall, there is much to be said about the impacts of AI and the importance of trusting yourself. The positives and negatives of AI’s impact on students’ daily lives are broken down.
| Positives | Negatives |
| Many students find that their writing improves significantly the more they use GenAI. Difficult topic? No problem. AI models are equipped with simplifying concepts for your most complicated subjects. Reward systems are set up; the more feedback you provide and use, the more likely a student will return to use the model. Essentially, it feeds them with positive affirmations. By reducing monotonous tasks, students can become less stressed, which takes pressure away and allows them to enjoy more of their time. | Cognitive abilities lessen as the need for critical analysis declines. Why try to understand what Shakespeare is saying when AI can do that for you?Self-confidence decreases when AI models are unavailable—primarily seen in closed-book exams, where students rely on their knowledge, or at this point, a lack thereof. Misinformation is often left unchecked, which can lead to students interpreting bias and accidentally plagiarising. The climate disaster isn’t becoming any better, and AI models are increasing both CO2 outputs and water consumption in data centres. |
There are many alternatives to wean yourself away from using Artificial Intelligence if you want to. DCU offers many resources weekly that you can avail of for free; this includes: academic writing classes and maths grinds. Sometimes, traditional methods are best for learning. Discussing topics with friends or engaging in peer reviewing not only helps your critical thinking skills but also fosters friendships. Professors are always available to help students with queries and are often the best people to consult for understanding topics and assignments.
