Preserving Our Ability to Think for Ourselves
As we navigate through the increasing reliance on technology for information and communication, the use of artificial intelligence is hitting an all-time high. Models such as ChatGPT are taking a significant toll on our critical thinking skills, impacting students in higher education the most. We are on the verge of experiencing an extinction of the art of forming thoughtful opinions, and instead, are turning to AI chatbots. This article explores the implications of educational policies concerning AI integration into academic and professional settings. As we delve deeper into the intricacies of our relationship with AI, it’s crucial to recognise the growing dependence on these technologies, particularly among younger generations.
Critical thinking encompasses a wide range of skills, primarily the ability to interpret and analyse various sources of information, including situations, data, judgments, beliefs, and procedures, while understanding their significance. In the context of Language Learning Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, the nature of cognitive and critical thinking functions comes into question. It’s essential to recognise that, without the ability to think critically, we are unable to engage with meaningful ideas. It’s when we engage in an opinion that we normally don’t see, when we challenge an assumption, the why behind a question. This is often most experienced in younger children, as they’re known for their probing questions, the constant “why, why, why”, yet it is the most innocent form of learning.
As the branches of artificial intelligence extend into untamed territory, its vines reach out, stretching across the vast and untamed landscape of the internet, seeking knowledge and insight to fuel its growth. The vines intertwine with everything in their path, swallowing it whole, often choking the life out of other plants. AI models unethically utilise the work of creators without their consent, in the process of training their models, thereby blurring the lines between ownership and creativity. We must cultivate a mindful approach, ensuring that while we embrace the potential of these technologies, we also protect the integrity of originality. The path of overreliance is dangerous, and as we pave our way towards it, we must take actionable steps to stop this process from occurring.
The question you have, the notes you need and the image you absolutely must analyse seem convenient to gather from ChatGPT; however, it is important to remember that the model is designed to be convenient. It is designed to help you in whatever way possible. While it does take time to do the boring, repetitive tasks on your own, remember that it is how it was always done; we weren’t born with artificial intelligence. Embrace the challenge–it’s in those moments that your hard work pays off the most. Being able to question and engage is the foundation of learning; without critical thinking, we have no way to rally.
Critical Thinking and ChatGPT’s Usage
A study by MIT researchers explored how reliance on ChatGPT harms critical thinking abilities. This study does not suggest a direct link or cause-and-effect relationship between critical thinking and ChatGPT. The study consisted of 54 participants from Greater Boston universities who were asked to do one task: essay writing. They were divided into three groups: Group 1 only used ChatGPT to write their essay, Group 2 used Google as a search engine without the AI functionality, and Group 3 used no tools at all. Instead, it suggests that it’s beneficial to engage your brain before relying on a tool or language model. Researchers studied the neural activity during the investigation using non-invasive brain imaging called an electroencephalogram (EEG). The evidence showed that the change from using LLMs and search engines scales down brain activity, while there was higher neural connectivity associated with using no AI tools at all. Additionally, ChatGPT users had the lowest brain engagement and consistently underperformed at neural, linguistic and behavioural levels. They got more lethargic over the course of several months and resorted to just copying and pasting the essay.
Teen usage has surged: now 26% of teens aged 13-17 use ChatGPT for schoolwork, up from 13% in 2023. The increase was most pronounced among Black and Hispanic students (at 31% each) compared to white teens (22%). A large reason why AI models are so attractive and heavily used is their cognitive offloading, meaning that individuals rely on them to reduce mental effort. There haven’t been enough studies to prove what the long-term impacts are on cognitive functions like memory, attention and problem solving, but it’s safe to say that the effects are detrimental.
Image from How People Use ChatGPT
OpenAI released a study showing the various uses of ChatGPT since its 2022 release.
This image displays the primary uses of ChatGPT. An estimated 78% of its use goes to practical guidance, writing and seeking information, whilst the other 22% goes to random discussions and relationship advice. These numbers may not seem so significant. However, they represent thousands of megawatts used to power AI datacenters that feed these prompts. This consumption produces an enormous amount of carbon emissions and uses a significant amount of resources. With around 180 million users a day, it is not easy to regulate generative AI. This data shows that we are reliant on this language model to replace mundane tasks, things that were once labelled as boring, we turn to it to seek relationship advice and worst of all, find companionship. This should feel dystopian because human life is precious. Rather than talking to a human being, a real-life person filled with ideas, creativity, perspectives, and real emotions, we are turning to an AI chatbot.
Being able to think for ourselves, defend our honour, and experience our feelings is what makes us innately human. We must not let artificial intelligence take that away from us. Academics, writers, artists, professors, and curious minds see the beauty in intelligence and learning, and we must protect that. Don’t let AI take control of your precious mind; instead, let your talents speak for themselves. Make work that you are proud to call your own, for that’s how it is intended to be. Let us protect the last bit of our originality.