A new study by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has raised concerns about how ChatGPT may impact learning. The early findings suggest that relying too heavily on the AI tool could reduce brain activity and make users more likely to absorb biased or shallow perspectives.
In the study, participants were split into three groups. One used ChatGPT, another used a search engine, and the last group used no tools at all. While writing essays, their brain activity was monitored with EEG scans.
The results showed that the group using only ChatGPT had the lowest brain engagement and struggled to recall their writing. In contrast, those who used no assistance showed the most cognitive activity and memory retention.
In a second round, the ChatGPT group had to write essays without help. Their writing was judged as biased and less thoughtful, performing worse than others.
The researchers introduced the idea of “cognitive debt”, which refers to the long-term decline in learning and independent thinking from repeated AI use. Over time, this could lead to reduced creativity, poor critical thinking, and greater susceptibility to manipulation.
Participants who relied solely on their minds reported stronger satisfaction and brain connection to their work. Meanwhile, those who used AI tools felt detached and couldn’t recall quotes from their essays.
The researchers call for further studies to understand AI’s impact before calling large language models a benefit to human development.
