Since Chat GPT’s big momentum, the number of people relying on chatbots – besides already existing research gates – has exponentially increased in the last few years. Research has found that the main reason for using chatbots is to boost productivity when doing homework, research, etc. due to the fast and efficient provision of answers/solutions to input questions (Brandtzæg and Følstad, 2017). Therefore, chatbots are very convenient as they summarize long articles, resolve code questions, explain complex terminologies and provide guidance for different projects in any field (entrepreneurship, health, strategy formulation, etc.). Nonetheless, I wonder whether these chatbots will interfere with our critical thinking capabilities for future generations.
A thin line exists between partly relying on or fully depending on AI tools. Most of us, rely on chatbots for assistance and to generate ideas, nonetheless, we still question the reliability of the information provided to us. AI tools can provide erroneous, outdated or biased data; thus, double-checking the data through other search gates or critically assessing the information is important.
The Alpha generation (2013-2025) is the first one to be born surrounded by technology interfering with their behaviour and learning processes (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2023). The convenience of using chatbots might negatively impact this generation by lacking critical thinking skills development and idea generation (Tech Business News, 2023). This is because the Alpha generation is growing up by (to some extent) fully relying on AI tools.
Chatbots such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, Google Bard, etc. provide many benefits like facilitating research, work efficiency, assistance for business developments, creation of art and many others. Nonetheless, we should still assess the data given by these tools. We should solely rely on these, otherwise, our critical thinking skills might be reduced, our creativity might be hindered, and we will lack idea development abilities. Hence, how will chatbots impact our cognitive abilities and way of thinking? Will they hinder or boost our critical thinking skills? And idea creation capabilities?
Sources:
Brandtzæg, P. B., & Følstad, A. (2017). Why people use chatbots. In Lecture Notes in Computer Science (pp. 377–392). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-70284-1_30
Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). Generation Alpha | Years, characteristics, & Facts. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Generation-Alpha
Tech Business News. (2023). ChatGPT May Lead To The Downfall Of Education And Critical Thinking. https://www.techbusinessnews.com.au/blog/chatgpt-may-lead-to-the-downfall-of-eduction-and-critical-thinking/