Think Again: Memory in the AI Age

Throughout history, new technologies have sparked debates about what we lose in the face of what we gain. With the rapid rise of generative AI, many users are asking: How exactly is this tool affecting the continuity of human knowledge and skills?

Neuroscience tells us that the constant influx of information changes our brains, bringing both benefits and unintended consequences for how we learn and grow. Recently, OpenAI introduced its new “Study Mode” feature, designed specifically to support learning, memory, and skill acquisition.

This release suggests that conventional GenAI applications may not be well-suited for these kinds of cognitive tasks. So, what problems is this new feature trying to solve? And how can everyday users avoid the common pitfalls of using GenAI as a learning partner?

From Discovering Digital Amnesia to GenAI 

In 2011, research found that using search engines can affect memory by triggering our tendency to offload memory onto external resources like the internet, making us less likely to encode information in our brains. In fact, this habit created a false sense of mastery and inflated confidence in future performance.

But generative AI is more nuanced than a simple internet search—it compiles and creates detailed information at lightning speed. And it’s everywhere, designed to mirror our languages and thought processes.  

Emerging research suggests GenAI may have similar effects on cognitive processes as search engines.  A recent study found that participants who used GenAI tools for work tasks exhibited weaker neural connectivity and reduced overall cognitive activity compared to those who relied solely on their brains. The “brain-only” group showed stronger, more distributed networks linked to creative ideation, memory load, and semantic processing.

What’s more, participants who used external GenAI platforms recalled less of their own work than those who didn’t. In fact, researchers suggest that relying on AI and other discovery tools may bypass memory-building processes like retrieval, error correction, and schema-building—all essential for expertise, critical thinking, and long-term retention.

GenAI’s Impact on Learning and the Brain

This digital amnesia phenomenon raises concerns that constant GenAI use may make us forgetful and too reliant on tech.

When we encounter new information, the brain makes a cost–benefit decision: if the answers are instantly accessible online, it may choose not to store them deeply. Like search engines, GenAI can act as an external memory bank, encouraging us to offload even more information and potentially discouraging deep learning. As a result, we may develop a false sense of understanding that masks real learning gaps.  

Yet, research paints a more nuanced picture than the doom-and-gloom—or sunshine-and-roses—associated with GenAI use. Different studies suggest that how GenAI affects learning and memory depends on how, when, and by whom the tools are used. While generative AI can affect our brains, its impact isn’t fixed—some behaviors can buffer against digital amnesia.

3 GenAI Strategies to Strengthen Our Brains

If using GenAI can quietly impair our memory while inflating our confidence, then we need to acknowledge this sobering outcome.

Building metacognitive awareness—that is, knowing what you understand, what you don’t, and how you learn—can help you engage with GenAI more meaningfully. When we use it alongside our brains, we can strengthen our memory and better assess the true limits of our knowledge. Here’s how:

1. Use AI to interrogate your own knowledge.  

Instead of treating GenAI as a shortcut, use it as a tool to investigate what you already know. Try explaining a concept to a GenAI tool and ask it to critique your explanation, pointing out gaps. You can also ask AI to prompt you with follow-up questions that challenge your assumptions and force you to clarify your reasoning.

Try this prompt

“Here’s how I understand [insert topic]. Can you evaluate my explanation, point out any inaccuracies, and ask me questions that would help me deepen my understanding?"

2. Answer questions yourself before going online.

While nearly 80% of people preferred to search first—revealing a natural reliance on external resources—attempting to look up answers first provides a mental framework that helps memory. Set a short “think time” rule—even 60 seconds—before searching to strengthen internal recall and reduce dependence on digital scaffolding.

Try this prompt

"Before you give me the answer, I’m going to try to explain or solve this myself: [insert your attempt]. Afterward, can you compare my response to the correct answer and explain where I went wrong or right?"

3. Double-click on your knowledge.

Different formats can create more fluency effects than others. When you engage with primary sources or more detailed explanations, you’re forced to process information more actively, which reinforces memory encoding. Not only can this mitigate AI hallucination, but it may also reduce the effect of digital amnesia.

Try this prompt

"I read a summary of [insert topic], but I want to go deeper. Can you help me find and explore the original sources or more detailed explanations, and highlight any nuances or complexities I might miss at a surface level?"

Old Lessons for New Tools

We don’t need to abandon search engines or GenAI—they’re too useful and too embedded in daily life. But we do need to use them more critically. Without metacognitive checks, we risk confusing access to information with true understanding.

Digital tools should deepen knowledge, not just simulate it. When we learn from the past, we can shape a healthier relationship with GenAI today and in the future. History offers valuable lessons—if we’re willing to pay attention.

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