The role of AI & Chatbots in enhancing cognitive skills in algerian higher education

This research focuses on the impact that integrating AI tools and chatbots into education has on critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities among undergraduate students in Algeria. The study, a quasi-experiment with pre- and post intervention measures, surveys, and focus group interviews, ascertains how far AI driven learning modifies the cognitive powers of students. The results were increased identification of biases, information evaluation, and the creation of innovative solutions. However, issues of overdependence on the potentials of AI tools and occasional simplification while carrying out tasks hint at an ability to balance integration with conventional pedagogical approaches. This study contributes to the still-growing discussion of AI in education with realistic recommendations for educators and policymakers, especially in resource-constrained settings such as Algeria. The research points out challenges that include gaps in digital literacy and infrastructure and underlines the possible potential of AI to transform higher education in developing countries.