How AI is Changing the Way Students Think Today

 

 In the past, students often depended on books, teachers, and libraries to study. Learning took more time, and finding information was not always easy. But today, with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), things have changed quickly. Many students now use AI tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, or translation apps to help with writing, reading, and even thinking. This new way of learning has many benefits, but it also brings some challenges, especially in how students think and solve problems.

AI tools are helpful for students in many ways. For example, when students do not understand something, they can ask AI for a quick explanation. When they write an essay, they can use AI to check grammar, improve vocabulary, or give feedback. This makes learning faster and sometimes easier. According to research by Suryani & Mahendra (2023), AI technology helps students become more efficient and confident in their studies, especially in writing and research tasks.

Because AI gives instant answers, many students now rely on it more than on books or teachers. This changes how they think. Some students no longer try to understand deeply. They just ask AI and copy the answer. Over time, this habit can make students lose their critical thinking skills. They may not ask "why" or "how" anymore. They just want quick results. This is a big challenge in education today.

However, this does not mean AI is bad. AI is just a tool. It depends on how students use it. When used in a smart way, AI can help students become more creative and independent. For example, students can ask AI to give ideas, then develop those ideas with their own thoughts. AI can also help them check their own writing and learn from their mistakes. A study by Andriani & Yusuf (2024) found that students who use AI as a support tool, not as the main answer source, actually improve their thinking and writing skills.

The influence of AI also affects how students see learning. In the past, hard work and patience were important values. Now, many students want fast results and easy solutions. Some begin to think that using AI is a shortcut to success. This change in mindset can be dangerous. If students forget the importance of process, discipline, and effort, they may face problems in real-life situations that require deep thinking and personal judgment.

So, why should people care about this? Because the future of education depends not only on technology, but also on students' mindset. If young people become too dependent on AI, they may lose their ability to think for themselves. But if they learn to use AI wisely, they can become more prepared for the modern world. Teachers, schools, and even parents need to guide students in using AI responsibly. Just like calculators didn't replace learning math, AI should not replace learning how to think.

In conclusion, AI is now part of student life. It changes how students study, how they write, and how they think. This can be a good thing or a bad thing---depending on how it is used. Students must be taught to use AI as a tool for growth, not as a way to avoid learning. Thinking is still an important skill. And in this modern age, smart thinking means knowing when to use technology and when to think on your own.

Author: Muhammad Aril Saputra

Media: Kompasiana