Dr Ayesha Khanna warns AI homework use linked to 24% lower exam scores

Global AI expert Dr. Ayesha Khanna has cautioned that students who depend on artificial intelligence tools to finish their homework without a fundamental understanding of the subject matter experience a significant decline in academic performance. Speaking at the IMF/World Bank annual meetings, she revealed that global research indicates such students perform nearly 24% worse in subsequent examinations compared to those who engage more deeply with their coursework. This warning comes as educational institutions worldwide grapple with the rapid integration of generative AI in the classroom.

Dr. Khanna, who serves as the Co-Founder and CEO of Addo, emphasized that an over-reliance on AI could inadvertently erode critical thinking and the capacity for independent learning. While AI offers powerful capabilities, its use as a shortcut for assignments rather than a supplement to learning prevents students from internalizing key concepts. This lack of engagement becomes evident during exams where AI assistance is unavailable, leading to the observed drop in scores. She noted that the goal should be to enhance human intelligence, not replace it with automated responses.

To address these challenges, Dr. Khanna urged education systems to proactively integrate AI literacy into their curricula without sacrificing core academic disciplines. She advocated for a balanced approach that encourages students to question information and participate in robust academic debate. By teaching students how to use AI effectively as a tool for inquiry rather than a replacement for effort, educators can better prepare the next generation for the complexities of an evolving global labor market while preserving the essential skills of logic and reason.