How often do you use generative AI?
Following the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI in 2022, the artificial intelligence model spiked in popularity reaching 100 million users across the globe within just two months. The model is able to converse and generate responses based upon whatever prompt it is given. For students especially this includes, step-by-step solutions to math equations, brainstorming ideas for an upcoming project, or even just completing the assignment itself in a short amount of time. Who wants to sit and spend hours writing an essay when ChatGPT can get the work done in just a few seconds? Although AI may seem like the solution to all our problems, the rise of artificial intelligence can pose serious threats to human health and development especially in adolescents.
According to the American Psychological Association, when used in certain ways, AI can actually enhance learning through explaining complex topics in detail as well as summarizing content to make note taking more efficient. However, over-dependency on AI can result in diminished critical thinking skills, increased risk of academic dishonesty and raise glaring concerns over data privacy issues when people send AI their personal information.
Diving deeper into impact on critical thinking, relying solely on the information provided by AI in response to a single prompt can diminish critical thinking skills. Adolescents in particular use their creative thinking and problem solving skills less frequently because it is faster and ultimately easier to ask ChatGPT. In the moment this sounds like a better option, however in the long run it becomes tempting to constantly rely on a computer to do the work for you meaning you get less practice with essential critical skills.
Furthermore, because training AI models is reliant on content from across the internet, there is a risk of bias being present in the responses AI gives. Over-use could cause individuals to unknowingly adopt these biases over time.
Beyond the risk of AI negatively affecting critical thinking skills, another concern is over-use causing social isolation and emotional detachment. Dependency on the responses AI provides tainted by confirmation bias, can cause addiction. In turn, people may tend to rely on AI to take on a therapist role in their lives instead of comfort from other humans leading to possible concerns around social isolation. AI is incapable of experiencing empathy. Excessive conversation or usage of AI, therefore, can potentially reduce emotional intelligence.
Although ChatGPT can certainly be used as a tool to save time and work more efficiently, it is important to consider the downsides and avoid over-usage.