Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a study conducted by MIT that explores the cognitive effects of relying on AI, specifically ChatGPT, for writing tasks, suggesting that over-dependence on AI may lead to a decline in critical thinking and creativity [3][25]. Group 1: Experiment Overview - The experiment involved 54 university students from prestigious institutions who were divided into three groups: one using ChatGPT (AI group), one using Google search (search engine group), and one relying solely on memory (brain group) [6][11]. - Each group completed writing tasks based on SAT prompts, with their brain activity monitored using EEG technology to assess cognitive engagement [4][10]. Group 2: Cognitive Findings - The brain activity of the brain group was the most active, indicating strong engagement in thinking, organizing, and executing tasks, while the AI group showed lower overall brain activity and declining attention over time [11][22]. - The study highlighted the concept of "cognitive debt," where reliance on AI for writing may enhance short-term efficiency but could degrade long-term cognitive abilities, such as critical thinking and creativity [8][12]. Group 3: Writing Quality and Perception - Essays produced by the AI group were criticized for being grammatically correct but lacking depth and originality, while the search engine group produced more coherent and personalized content [8][12]. - Students using AI expressed mixed feelings about their work, often feeling a lack of ownership and clarity regarding the sources of their information [14][22]. Group 4: Long-term Effects of AI Usage - In a follow-up round, students who switched from using AI to writing independently exhibited slower cognitive responses and difficulty recalling their writing processes, indicating a potential decline in cognitive skills due to prior reliance on AI [21][22]. - Conversely, students who transitioned from traditional writing to using AI showed increased brain activity and improved writing quality, suggesting that AI can enhance cognitive engagement when used appropriately [24][25]. Group 5: Conclusion and Implications - The research culminated in a paper titled "Your Brain on ChatGPT," which sparked discussions about the implications of AI on cognitive development and writing skills [24][25]. - The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining active engagement in writing processes to foster critical thinking and creativity, warning against the risks of becoming overly reliant on AI tools [26][27].