AI is helping students be more independent, but the isolation could be career poison

Chatbots are reshaping student interactions by providing immediate academic assistance, which diminishes the need for engagement with professors and classmates. This trend, while convenient, raises concerns about the long-term impact on students' social capital and support networks. Julia Freeland-Fisher from the Clayton Christensen Institute asserts that students who rely on AI may find themselves increasingly isolated and without essential guidance during academic struggles. Christian Alba, a College of the Canyons student, has utilized ChatGPT for brainstorming but questions whether this reliance could hinder his academic integrity. Jean Rhodes, a psychology professor, cautions that while chatbots can offer quick answers, they fail to replicate the nuanced understanding of human advisors who can facilitate deeper conversations about students' goals.

Programs like Connected Scholars at UMass Boston aim to bridge this gap by teaching students the importance of networking and mentorship. Rhodes' research indicates that students who participate in such programs are three times more likely to graduate, highlighting the benefits of human connections. As AI tools become more integrated into education, the challenge remains to balance their use with the necessity of fostering meaningful relationships.