Swedish researchers conducted a study ofArtificial Intelligence ToolsThe association between the use of AI tools and the executive functioning of school-aged children was investigated. The study found that the use of AI tools has both potential benefits and risks for school-age children's learning.
This study focuses on the relationship between the use of AI tools in schoolwork and executive functioning (EF). Executive functioning refers to cognitive processes such as planning, inhibition, and flexibility, which are critical for academic success.
To get the full picture, the researchers conducted two separate studies: one on youngerstudent(mean age 14, 385 participants) and another for older adolescents (mean age 17, 359 participants).
The results show that there is a significant difference in the use of AI tools by different age groups. Only 14.8% of younger students used AI chatbots to complete their assignments compared to 52.6% of older students.Interestingly, boys used ChatGPT more while girls preferred Snapchat MY-AI.
For students with more executive functioning issues, AI tools appear to be more useful academically, especially for completing assignments. This trend has raised concerns among researchers that while AI may help students with learning disabilities to better plan and complete tasks, it may have a negative impact on students' cognitive development if it is used as a substitute for learning.
Researchers warn that the way AI tools are used is crucial. It's fine if students only see them as aids, but relying entirely on AI to complete tasks could raise ethical questions and lead to uncritical acceptance of AI-generated content. It is worth noting thatThe study did not find a significant correlation between the use of AI tools and student academic performance.
Given the potential impact of AI tools on educational equity and cognitive development, the researchers emphasize that schools should develop clear guidelines for the use of AI chatbots and call for more research to ensure the safe and effective use of AI in education.
Another related study from a Korean university provides additional context. The researchers surveyed 300 students with experience using ChatGPT and showed that stress significantly increased the propensity to use AI. Students with low academic self-efficacy were prone to feeling stressed, which led to higher expectations and greater reliance on AI. Students generally mentioned thatNegative effects of AI use include increased laziness, decreased creativity, misinformation, and diminished critical thinking skills.