Generative AI tools have changed the way we research, learn, and complete academic work. Platforms like ChatGPT can gather information quickly and present it in a well-organised way. Instead of moving from one webpage to another using a traditional search engine, you can type a question into an AI tool and receive a clear response almost instantly. This convenience is one of the reasons AI has become so popular. However, the excitement around these tools has also led to a misunderstanding among many students about what AI actually does.
THE MISCONCEPTION ABOUT AI
A common belief is that AI somehow creates information by itself. Many people think of it as a magical system that manufactures knowledge out of nowhere. In reality, AI relies entirely on historical data, information that already exists on the internet, in books, and in publicly available sources. It does not invent new facts. Instead, it predicts and generates responses based on patterns it has learned from these sources. This means that while AI can help you find information quickly, it cannot replace your own understanding of the subject matter.
WHAT I’VE OBSERVED AS A LECTURER
Since the rise of generative AI, I have noticed a decline in the quality of student work. This decline is not because AI is harmful, but because of how some students misuse it. Many students now receive an assignment and immediately paste it into an AI tool, expecting a complete and accurate answer to appear. What often comes out, however, is work that is off-topic, confusing, or unrelated to what was taught in class. When I mark these scripts, it becomes obvious that the student did not understand the content. The writing lacks coherence, misses important concepts, and does not reflect classroom discussions.
What is surprising is that students who actually understand the material consistently perform better, even when they use AI. Their foundational knowledge allows them to guide the AI, refine its output, and produce work that is meaningful and relevant. AI becomes an extension of their thinking rather than a replacement for it.
WHY KNOWLEDGE STILL MATTERS
AI cannot take the place of real learning. If you want to become a programmer, AI cannot suddenly make you one just because it can generate code. You still need to understand programming logic, problem-solving methods, and core concepts. The same applies to fields like data analysis, science, or any discipline that requires technical and theoretical knowledge. Without a solid foundation, AI’s output will be confusing, shallow, or incorrect. With a solid foundation, AI can boost your productivity and help you work faster and more effectively.
Students who do well today are those who build their knowledge and then use AI to support it. They use AI to clarify difficult topics, check their reasoning, or speed up parts of their research. They understand when an AI answer is inaccurate and can correct or improve it. Their learning is stronger because AI enhances their understanding rather than replacing it.
AI SHOULD SUPPORT YOUR FOUNDATION, NOT REPLACE IT
We are living in an era filled with excitement about artificial intelligence, and rightly so. These tools are powerful and can help us accomplish tasks more efficiently. But no matter how advanced AI becomes, it cannot replace the foundational knowledge that every learner needs. Understanding your subject is still essential. AI becomes truly effective only when you know what you are doing.
The key message is simple: use AI, embrace the technology, but do not neglect your learning. Knowledge is still your strongest asset. Those who succeed in this new age of AI are the individuals who understand the material and use AI as a tool to amplify their capabilities, not as a substitute for their own thinking.
Hi, I’m Dr. Mobolanle Bello, a Computer Science Lecturer with over 15 years of experience in software engineering, web development, data science, database management, ebusiness, research, and education. My expertise includes creating bespoke digital solutions such as e-learning platforms and e-commerce sites, alongside conducting research in AI, machine learning, and network optimisation. I have published my work in respected journals and conferences, contributing to advancements in technology. Outside of academia, I am passionate about using technology to improve lives and am committed to inspiring the next generation of tech professionals through teaching and collaboration.
