Since I have started my Bachelor programme in 2022, ChatGPT quickly became a part of my personal and student-life. As a (some would say ‘typical’) Gen-z’er, I started experimenting with the tool and mastered it quickly. I found out soon in my student years that it is a great tool for studying, as it helps me to solve complicated math equations, generate business ideas for group projects and give me more in-depth explanations of theories discussed in lectures. The biggest advantage of all is the time I get to save.
I can confidently say, I am grateful I study in this technological era as it makes the process of studying much more efficient.
However, the very attributes that draw students to ChatGPT, such as Speed, accessibility, and convenience, also bring up significant issues. Hasanein en Sobaih (2023) state that GenAI can bring negative aspects for students including overreliance, lack of quality and accuracy, and draining of the student skill set. These conclusions propose that, when ChatGPT can support study activities, there is also a chance that it will deter students from using more complex cognitive processes
These findings make me reconsider the use of AI in my everyday learning. On the one hand, I am excited to continue using the tool, as saves me a lot of time and improves my academic performance. However, I also want to further develop my cognitive skills, which I fear may deteriorate when using too much GenAI tools. To decide whether to continue incorporating ChatGPT into our learning strategies or return to more traditional study methods, I would like to initiate a discussion. The difficulty ultimately lives in finding a balance between the importance of building your own critical thinking and the advantages that AI brings.
Hi Pien, nice post! I really relate to what you describe here. Like you, I’ve found GenAI incredibly helpful for saving time and getting quick explanations, but I also share the concern that it might make me a bit too quick to ‘outsource’ the harder parts of studying. I think the key point you raise is balance: using AI as a support without letting it take over the deeper thinking. What has helped me is to consciously decide when to use ChatGPT (for example, proofreading or clarifying concepts) and when not to (like practising problem solving or developing arguments myself). That way, I try to still train my own skills while benefiting from the tool’s strengths. It is, however, still easy to fall back into the trap of ChatGPT’s ‘easy’ answers. I’d be curious to hear if you’ve found any strategies that help you keep that balance in check in your own studies.