I am interested in how AI search services (chatbots) could impact people’s critical thinking abilities. One definition of critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas. Some individuals think that using chatbots to perform simple but necessary tasks will make them less capable of thinking critically. It could be compared to a “use it or lose it” situation. However, I believe AI search services would improve people’s critical thinking skills. It is like how the calculator revolutionized the teaching of math. As long as you learn the fundamental processes, like simple addition or division, then you can use the calculator to expand your math capabilities. Sure, you can do the math the long and complex way, but a calculator can do it effortlessly; therefore, you can complete more complex math topics. The calculator did not ruin people’s ability to do math; it is used to aid in learning math, pushing students to learn complex math topics and improve their math abilities. The same situation could happen with incorporating AI search services into society. They could aid in reaching levels of critical thinking that were impossible before. As long as people are taught the basics of critical thinking before using these services, they will not hinder their critical thinking. Just like how I would be able to solve a simple math problem with pen and paper if need be, people would be able to think critically without chatbots.
I would also like to research how AI search services push our boundaries of critical thinking, which is vital in the consulting field, so if there are ways to improve this skill using chatbots, I need to learn about it. Of course, it would make me a more competitive candidate in the job market, but developing this skill could help me in other aspects of life.
