AI Convenience Could Be Creating ‘Fake Intelligence’ in Children, Educator Warns

Artificial intelligence may help students finish assignments faster, but one leading educator warns that overreliance on the technology could undermine the development of genuine knowledge, perseverance, and critical thinking.

Dr. Jonathan Strecker of Valley School of Ligonier addresses the issue in his book, Emergence: How Modern Convenience is Dumbing Down Our Children and What Parents and Schools Can Do About It. He describes the appearance of academic achievement without meaningful learning as “fake intelligence.”

According to Strecker, the problem emerges when children focus on completing an assignment rather than developing competence through the process. A student assigned a book report, for example, can ask an AI platform to summarize the book and produce an age-appropriate paper that imitates the student’s writing style.

Although the assignment may be finished, the student has avoided the reading, reasoning and writing necessary for intellectual growth.

Scientific research into neuroplasticity shows that the brain develops as people repeatedly work through challenging problems. Strecker argues that moments of struggle prepare the brain for deeper learning, making it essential for parents and teachers to value the process—not merely the finished product.

He also cautions that education involves more than intellectual performance. Children must develop emotional awareness, relationships, empathy and other qualities that define human life. AI can support learning, he said, but it should not replace the experiences that cultivate maturity and character.

To help families navigate AI, Strecker recommends three steps: pause, use it purposefully and proof the final work.

First, students should record what they already know and create an initial draft without technological assistance. Second, they can use AI as a tutor by requesting feedback or suggestions instead of asking it to complete the assignment. Finally, students should carefully review the result, verifying its accuracy and ensuring they understand the material.

Strecker emphasized that he is not opposed to AI itself. His concern is how it is used.

As technology becomes increasingly powerful, parents and schools face a vital responsibility: ensuring convenience does not rob children of the productive struggle through which wisdom, competence and perseverance are formed.

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