The Impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence Dependency on Cognitive Function of University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The increasing integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into higher education has transformed how university students access information, understand academic concepts, and complete learning activities. Although these technologies offer educational benefits, excessive dependence on AI-generated responses may be associated with cognitive offloading and reduced engagement in independent thinking and problem-solving.

This study aims to examine the association between generative AI dependency and cognitive functioning among university students, with particular attention to cognitive domains such as attention, memory, and executive functioning.

An observational cross-sectional design will be employed. Eligible university students aged 18-25 years will be invited to participate voluntarily through online announcements and electronic survey links. Informed consent will be obtained before data collection.

Participants will complete a structured online questionnaire collecting demographic and academic information, patterns of generative AI use, dependency-related responses, and measures of cognitive functioning.

The collected data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis to explore the relationship between AI dependency and cognitive functioning.

As this is a cross-sectional observational study, the results will identify possible associations but will not establish a causal relationship between generative AI dependency and changes in cognitive functioning.

The findings may contribute to understanding the educational implications of generative AI dependency and inform future research and teaching strategies promoting responsible AI use.