Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the classroom, offering students new ways to access information, generate ideas, and streamline learning. However, recent research highlights a concerning trend: students who frequently rely on AI for problem-solving and decision-making demonstrate lower critical thinking skills.
This phenomenon, known as cognitive offloading, occurs when individuals depend on technology to think for them rather than developing their own analytical abilities. For teachers in the UK, the challenge is clear—how can they encourage students to use AI effectively without sacrificing independent thought?