A massive study of 26,000 students in China found that using AI for homework and exams can have a hidden cost. While AI users initially finished assignments faster and got better grades, their exam scores dropped significantly over time. The full impact of this learning gap didn’t become apparent until about two years after they started using AI. This suggests that relying on AI can lead to a decline in critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which is a major concern for educators. Why it matters: this study highlights the potential long-term risks of relying on AI in education, and why it’s crucial to develop strategies that promote healthy AI use in the classroom.