The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday edition that Prof. Michael Gerlich at the SBS Swiss Business School in Zurich published a paper looking at the relationship between the use of generative artificial-intelligence applications, such as Microsoft-backed ChatGPT, and critical-thinking skills. The Globe's Joe Castaldo writes that Prof. Gerlich's conclusion is that students are overrelying on AI and not thinking enough. Prof. Gerlich's research found a "significant negative correlation" between AI use and critical-thinking abilities: A higher dependence on AI tools is associated with lower critical-thinking scores. Prof. Gerlich suggested a vicious cycle could play out: Relying on generative AI reduces the need for deep analysis and thought which leads to more reliance on AI. "It inadvertently fosters dependence, which can compromise critical thinking skills over time," he wrote. The paper includes quotes from some of the 666 participants. "I sometimes feel like I'm losing my own problem-solving skills," one participant said. Researchers at Microsoft issued a similar warning this year. The technology boosts efficiency, but "can inhibit critical engagement with work and can potentially lead to long-term overreliance."