Dependencia cognitiva y automatización del pensamiento: efectos del uso cotidiano de inteligencia artificial en las competencias críticas y creativas de estudiantes de comunicación social

Abstract

The proliferation of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed academic and professional dynamics. This research addresses the risk of functional dependence on these tools among Communication and Journalism students, analyzing how the systematic delegation of complex mental tasks—a phenomenon known as Cognitive Offloading—may be negatively affecting the development of critical thinking and creative autonomy. The study is grounded in the "Use It or Lose It" principle of neuroplasticity to justify the risk of functional skill atrophy. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach (quantitative survey to measure usage patterns and Cognitive Offloading; semi-structured interview to assess the perception of self-efficacy), the work aims to diagnose the degree of delegation and its correlation with a decrease in critical judgment. The expected results will inform the need to reformulate the curriculum to establish cognitive hygiene guidelines that promote AI as an enhancer, rather than a substitute, for essential communication skills.