Will using AI to complete summer homework change a child’s brain?-瞭望新时代网-瞭望时代，放眼世界

Will using AI to complete summer homework change a child’s brain?

2026-07-14

During summer break, AI has become a "homework partner" for many children—but when AI directly provides answers, is the child’s brain still actively engaged? How exactly should AI be used? Recently, reporters visited the electroencephalogram (EEG) laboratory of Beijing Normal University’s School of Psychology to explore how AI can truly support learning. Upon entering the lab, researchers first fitted the reporter with a set of EEG monitoring equipment. This acts as a "real-time dashboard" for the brain, tracking changes in brain activity during tasks. How Does Using AI for Problem-Solving Affect Brain Activity? Researchers conducted a demonstration experiment with the reporter. Two math problems of equal difficulty were selected: In the first task, the reporter solved the problem independently without AI assistance; in the second, AI provided the answer directly, and the reporter only read the solution process. After completing both tasks, two distinct EEG results emerged. Wang Yanpei, an associate researcher at Beijing Normal University’s School of Psychology, explained that when the reporter used AI, the Beta1 wave proportion was 15.84%; when solving independently, Beta1 waves accounted for 16.04%. Though the numerical difference appears slight, it is significant for individual samples. In other words, when solving problems independently, the reporter’s brain was actively engaged, fostering better attention development. When AI provided answers directly, the reporter had not yet begun thinking before the process ended. Even though the problem was eventually understood, the brain did not receive cognitive training during the problem-solving process. Wang Yanpei noted: "From 16 weeks of gestation to age 6, the brain undergoes rapid development. This period is critical for brain development and protection. When children receive AI assistance during learning, their effort levels decline." This explains why seemingly "basic" exercises—like reciting ancient poetry, verbally describing events, solving math problems, or independently writing answers—should not be fully delegated to AI. Reciting poetry trains memory; verbal expression practices communication skills; math problems build foundational numerical sense; and independently writing answers develop judgment abilities. Every time a child reads a problem, recalls information, or expresses ideas, their brain receives training and development. Is AI Completely Useless? Not Entirely. Wang Yanpei emphasized that AI should be used rationally to expand knowledge and facilitate learning. For summer break, children can follow the "Traffic Light Principle" to guide AI use: Green Light (Use Freely): Tasks like researching information, translating text, explaining concepts, or finding case studies. Here, AI acts as a "research assistant" to broaden horizons. Yellow Light (Use Cautiously): Tasks like writing essays, solving math problems, creating plans, or summarizing readings. Complete the task independently first, then use AI to refine, supplement, or generate ideas. Let AI serve as a "coach," not a "ghostwriter." Red Light (Avoid Initial Use): Tasks like oral expression, basic arithmetic for younger students, or first-time independent problem-solving. Let children attempt these tasks on their own first. Even if they take longer or make mistakes, the process is crucial for cognitive growth. This summer, encourage children to think independently before turning to AI. AI can help find answers faster, but it cannot replace the development of critical thinking abilities. (Looking Forward to the New Era)

Edit：WENWEN Responsible editor：LINXUAN

Source：CCTV News Client

Special statement: if the pictures and texts reproduced or quoted on this site infringe your legitimate rights and interests, please contact this site, and this site will correct and delete them in time. For copyright issues and website cooperation, please contact through outlook new era email：lwxsd@liaowanghn.com

Return to home page Return to list