AI's Effect on Teen Learning

AI is rapidly shaping the way teenagers think, learn, and develop. From homework and writing to planning and decision-making, it has become a daily tool for many students. While AI can make schoolwork easier, experts are increasingly concerned about how overuse may impact the developing brain.

In a recent webinar, Anna Manafova, our Career Counselor and a Stanford University graduate, explored these effects and shared practical strategies to help students build healthy boundaries with technology. 

How often do teenagers use AI: About 60 percent use AI every day and 40 percent use it a few times per week. These numbers reflect what most parents already see at home—AI is now a normal part of teenagers’ daily routines, both in and out of school.

A recent study from the MIT Media Lab examined how brain activity differs when students rely on AI versus when they think independently. Participants wrote the same essay three times: once using AI; once using a search engine; and once without any tools. Brain scans revealed striking differences:

• Students using AI showed the lowest level of brain engagement

• Students using Google showed moderate engagement

• Students working without tools had the highest activation in memory and reasoning areas

In simple terms, when AI does the heavy lifting, the brain works less. Over time, this reduced engagement can affect how deeply students learn and retain information. Researchers also found that when students returned to writing on their own after relying on AI, their creativity and focus did not immediately rebound—their brains needed time to readjust.

A recent Cornell University study also found that AI-style phrasing is increasingly evident in human speech and writing, especially in digital content like podcasts. At Ivy Options, we have noticed this trend in some of our students. They had trouble recalling what their AI-generated assignments contained, while others wrote in an overly polished, repetitive, or impersonal way. Over time, this can limit vocabulary growth and dull a student’s natural writing voice.

Heavy screen time combined with frequent AI use is also linked to mental fatigue. Many teenagers report feeling drained, losing focus more easily, or struggling to complete tasks without assistance. Some even say that after relying on AI, returning to independent work feels unusually difficult. This type of dependence can gradually weaken the brain’s ability to stay engaged and solve problems on its own.

Three Healthy AI Habits for Teenagers

• Use AI only for simple tasks. AI works best for quick explanations, summaries, and basic outlines. More complex tasks such as essays and problem-solving should be completed tech-free to strengthen critical thinking.

• Build digital-free moments into the day. Short phone-free walks, using a physical alarm clock, or establishing device-free time can help reset attention and reduce mental fatigue.

• Read long-form content regularly. Reading books and articles builds vocabulary, attention span, and creativity.

AI is a useful and powerful tool, but it should support—not replace—independent thinking. With balance and intention, AI can enhance learning without limiting cognitive growth. If you have any questions, please contact info@ivyoptions.com.