UASD psychologists analyze risks of excessive AI use in students

Psychologists from the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD) have analyzed the potential risks associated with the excessive use of artificial intelligence among university students. During a panel titled ‘From Skinner to ChatGPT: Behavior, Learning, and AI Dependency in University Students,’ experts discussed how reliance on these tools may hinder the development of critical thinking, independent research, and autonomous learning.

The discussion utilized B. F. Skinner’s theory of operant conditioning to examine how the immediacy of digital responses might reinforce habits that reduce a student's inclination to perform independent cognitive tasks. The panel emphasized the challenge of integrating AI into educational processes without displacing essential skills such as reading, creativity, and analytical reasoning.

Coordinated by Josefina Lorenzo, the event included contributions from various psychology specialists who explored the applications and limitations of AI in scientific writing, psychological evaluation, and clinical practice. The activity was held as part of the commemorative program for the 488th anniversary of the UASD.