Risks of Generative AI in Education Outweigh Benefits, Brookings Study Warns

A new comprehensive study from the Brookings Institution indicates that the risks associated with using generative artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings greatly surpass the potential benefits. The research, which included feedback from students, parents, educators, and tech experts across 50 countries, highlights the detrimental effects AI could have on the cognitive and emotional development of children and teens.

Why It Matters

The implications of this study are profound for educators, parents, and policymakers as classrooms increasingly integrate AI technologies. Understanding the potential dangers of generative AI is critical to safeguarding the educational experience and fostering healthy cognitive and emotional growth in students. As tools like ChatGPT become more prevalent, addressing their risks may help ensure that technology serves education rather than undermines it.

Key Developments

• The study, described as a “premortem,” aims to evaluate AI’s educational potential before long-term data is available.
• Generative AI is found to be both a potential aid for language learning and a risk to cognitive development.
• Teachers reported that AI could enhance reading and writing skills but stressed it should supplement, not replace, traditional instruction.
• Concerns were raised about AI’s effect on emotional well-being and social skills among students.
• The study emphasizes the need for immediate action to mitigate AI risks, including greater regulatory oversight and better-designed AI tools for educational use.

Full Report

Benefits of AI in Education

According to the research, generative AI can facilitate language acquisition, especially for students learning a second language by adjusting text complexity and providing a private learning environment. Educators noted that AI tools can inspire creativity and assist with writing tasks, including organization and grammar. However, the consensus underscores that AI should enhance, rather than supplant, teacher-led instruction.

Risks to Cognitive Development

The report emphasizes alarming concerns that reliance on AI could negatively impact students’ cognitive growth. The risk of “cognitive off-loading” has been highlighted, where students increasingly defer their analytical thinking to technology, consequently diminishing their critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Rebecca Winthrop, a senior fellow at Brookings and co-author of the report, expressed worry that students using generative AI tend to disengage from meaningful learning experiences.

Social and Emotional Consequences

Further findings indicate a worrying trend in emotional development among students. AI-enabled tools, particularly chatbots, could undermine young people’s ability to form real relationships and effectively cope with setbacks. Winthrop illustrated this issue by contrasting interactions with AI that tend to validate users’ feelings, potentially leading to discomfort in diverse social settings.

Equity and Accessibility Concerns

The report recognizes AI’s potential to democratize education for marginalized communities but warns about the possibility of deepening existing inequalities. Wealthier districts can invest in advanced AI systems, while underfunded schools might rely on less effective tools. This divergence could create disparities in educational quality and outcomes.

Recommendations for Improvement

To harness AI’s good while minimizing risks, the study provides several recommendations for parents, educators, and policymakers. Suggestions include fostering a learning environment focused more on curiosity than transactional outcomes, designing AI to challenge preconceived notions, and encouraging tech companies to collaborate with educators for better-designed educational tools. The study highlights the urgency of addressing these issues to not leave under-resourced districts behind.

Context & Previous Events

The Brookings Institution report reflects ongoing debates surrounding technology and education, particularly as generative AI systems like ChatGPT gain popularity. While previous discussions emphasized AI’s innovative potential, this latest report shifts focus toward a comprehensive evaluation of its impacts, signaling a critical need for balancing technological advancements with protective measures for students.