Overview

• Participants relying on ChatGPT exhibited the weakest neural connectivity compared with peers using search engines or writing without assistance
• AI-generated essays scored higher for structure and grammar but relied on repetitive phrasing and offered limited critical depth
• When prompted to recall or summarize their work, ChatGPT users demonstrated the greatest difficulty, indicating reduced memory retention
• Lead author Nataliya Kosmyna warned that unregulated reliance on AI tools could harm developing brains and urged peer review before widespread classroom adoption
• The findings challenge President Trump’s April executive order promoting AI in schools and intensify the policy debate over classroom integration