The world is all abuzz about ChatGPT and the transformative powers it offers, but a new study published in the International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education warns that generative AI may not be a great tool for students.
Study author Muhammad Abbas, an associate professor at the FAST School of Management at the National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences in Pakistan, told PsyPost that his inspiration for the research was based on his experiences as a professor. “For the last year, I observed an increasing, uncritical, reliance on generative-AI tools among my students for various assignments and projects . . . ”
The researchers first developed a scale to measure ChatGPT use. Then they surveyed 494 university students in Pakistan on how much they used ChatGPT academically, their academic performance, procrastination, and memory loss. They conducted these surveys three times at an interval of one to two weeks.
Findings raise troubling implications for AI and education
To begin with, the researchers found that students with heavy academic workloads and time pressure reported a higher use of ChatGPT. Students who were more sensitive to rewards were less likely to use ChatGPT. Interestingly, they found no correlation between a student’s conscientiousness about work quality and their use of ChatGPT. However, they did find that students who used ChatGPT frequently were more likely to procrastinate than students who rarely used ChatGPT.
Ultimately, the researchers also found that high use of ChatGPT was related to harmful outcomes. Students who frequently used ChatGPT reported memory loss and a poorer cumulative GPA. “Educators should encourage students to actively engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by assigning activities, assignments, or projects that cannot be completed by ChatGPT,” the study’s authors wrote. “This can mitigate the adverse effects of ChatGPT on their learning journey and mental capabilities.”
Recognize your brand’s excellence by applying to this year’s Brands That Matter Awards before the early-rate deadline, May 3.
