A recent study conducted by Cambridge University Press & Assessment and Microsoft Research has found that traditional learning methods, particularly note-taking, significantly enhance students’ reading comprehension and retention compared to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The research involved 405 students aged 14 to 15 from seven different schools across England, who explored topics from the UK’s national history curriculum.
The study’s methodology involved dividing participants into two groups. One group studied texts using a large language model (LLM), specifically ChatGPT 3.5 Turbo, for one text and took notes on another. The second group combined LLM use with note-taking for their respective texts. Following a brief tutorial on the AI tool, students were allowed to use it freely. After three days, they were tested on their understanding and retention of the material without prior notice.
Key Findings Highlight Benefits of Note-Taking
The results indicated that students who took notes, whether alone or alongside the LLM, demonstrated a better understanding and retention of new information than those who relied solely on the AI. Dr. Martina Kuvalja, a senior researcher at Cambridge, noted, “No pain, no gain – if you make your own notes, you’re probably going to remember what you’ve learned better than if someone – or something – summarises it for you.”
Although note-taking proved more effective, students expressed a preference for using the LLM for its engaging and exploratory capabilities. “Students found the AI chatbots more enjoyable and most said they would use the LLM method in the future,” Dr. Kuvalja added. This sentiment showcases the dual role that traditional and modern techniques can play in education.
Dr. Jake Hofman, Senior Principal Researcher at Microsoft, emphasized the complementary nature of these approaches. He stated, “Rather than viewing traditional learning techniques, like note-taking, and newer generative-AI approaches as competing alternatives, we should view them as complementary.” This perspective suggests a future where both methods can coexist, enhancing the educational experience.
Implications for Future Learning Environments
The findings of this study, published in the journal Computers & Education, represent one of the first randomized classroom experiments focusing on how LLMs impact students’ learning outcomes. The research team plans to delve deeper into how various prompts, training methods, and classroom designs influence learning when students use AI alongside traditional study techniques.
According to the National Literacy Trust, it is projected that by 2025, 60.9% of young people aged 13 to 18 will utilize generative AI to assist with homework. The study’s results stress the need for educational frameworks that guide students in using AI tools effectively while still promoting the advantages of traditional methods like note-taking.
As technology continues to evolve, the integration of AI in educational settings will likely become more prevalent. However, this study underscores the importance of balancing innovative tools with proven learning techniques to enhance student engagement and comprehension. The future of education may very well depend on how well educators can harness both traditional and modern approaches to foster a deeper understanding of complex subjects.
