Students are using AI tools instead of building foundational skills – but resistance is growing

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In a dimly lit library, a focused male student interacts with a glowing holographic display from his laptop, showing complex data. A red, crackling energy line extends from the display towards his hands. On the desk, an open notebook beneath it is titled 'FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS: UNDERSTANDING' with handwritten equations. Other students are visible in the background, implying a widespread trend. The scene contrasts AI tool usage with fundamental learning. Generated by Nano Banana.
The convenience of AI tools poses a growing dilemma for students: relying on them for quick answers versus engaging in the hard work of building foundational knowledge. While the allure of efficiency is strong, a movement towards prioritising true understanding and essential skills is gaining momentum. Image generated by Nano Banana.

Source

ZDNet

Summary

The rapid uptake of AI in education is fuelling concerns that students are outsourcing critical thinking and failing to build long-term skills. While AI helps with grading, planning, and coding, academics worry about “hollow” assignments that lack depth and originality. Some professors highlight students’ inability to explain code produced with AI, exposing gaps in understanding. In response, a coalition of technology faculty issued an open letter urging universities to resist uncritical adoption, warning of dependence, loss of expertise, and damage to academic freedom. Advocates argue AI should supplement—not replace—foundational skills, with careful vetting and practical use.

Key Points

  • AI is heavily used in classrooms, but risks undermining deep learning and original thought.
  • Examples show students submitting near-identical AI essays or failing to explain AI-written code.
  • Professors call for limits and redesigns to safeguard academic freedom and integrity.
  • Concerns include declining quality of computer science education and over-reliance on prompting tools.
  • Best practice is to adopt AI deliberately, ensuring it serves genuine educational purposes.

Keywords

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URL

https://www.zdnet.com/article/students-are-using-ai-tools-instead-of-building-foundational-skills-but-resistance-is-growing/

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

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