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A recent MIT study suggests that using AI tools like ChatGPT for essay writing can lead to "cognitive debt," reducing cognitive engagement and learning. The study compared essay writing with AI, search engines, and without any tools. Participants using AI showed lower engagement and poorer recall. However, critics argue the study design, focusing on a single writing task, may have skewed results. The authors suggest that, like calculators, AI's integration requires adjusting assessment methods to ensure students still engage deeply with learning and utilize AI strategically.

Prepared by Jonathan Pierce and reviewed by editorial team.