AI, Cognition, and the Cost of Convenience

Purpose: This study investigates whether overreliance on generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, diminishes cognitive engagement, memory retention, and critical thinking by analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) activation scores and behavioral outcomes. Methodology: Using simulated data modeled on the MEMA EEG dataset for 120 participants, the study divided subjects into three groups: unaided writing, AI-assisted writing, and full AI writing. Dependent variables included EEG activation scores, recall accuracy, and standardized critical thinking assessments. Statistical analyses employed analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlations, multiple regression, chi-square tests, and principal component analysis (PCA) to evaluate the impact of AI reliance on cognitive performance. Findings: Results demonstrate that excessive reliance on AI significantly reduces EEG activation, recall accuracy, and critical thinking scores, supporting the hypothesis of cognitive offloading. Strong positive correlations were found between EEG activation and both memory retention and analytical reasoning, indicating that diminished brain activity is directly associated with lower cognitive outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study extends cognitive load theory by providing neurophysiological evidence of AI-induced cognitive disengagement and linking it with behavioral deficits. For theory, it reinforces the concept that external cognitive agents can weaken intrinsic neural engagement. For policy, it underscores the importance of digital literacy initiatives that balance AI integration with the preservation of critical cognitive skills. For practice, it provides educators and AI developers with actionable insights: curricula should embed reflection and retrieval practices, while AI systems should be designed to encourage reasoning and active engagement rather than full automation.