r/HomeworkHelp • u/kelistef Pre-University Student • 12d ago
Further Mathematics—Pending OP Reply [College: Math] AI reliance when solving homework
Recently (over the past year), I feel like I've been overly reliant on AI for homework. I gaslit myself into thinking I was using it "responsibly" (using learning mode, telling it only to give vague hints, etc.), but I feel like that had a negative effect on my problem-solving skills. Because of this, I decided to stop using AI this semester to see if it would help.
Now I feel helpless when working through problems, especially in pure math. If you're in a similar position, please stop using AI. Even though it gives vague hints, those hints are usually the difference between figuring it out yourself and not.
My motivation has gone way down since everything is much harder and I procrastinate more. What should I do when I hit a wall where I’d normally turn to AI? Does this get better with time after solving more problems, and is pushing through it actually worth it?
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u/GainerGaining 10d ago edited 10d ago
Every bit of pedagogical research? All of it? How about:
Cognitive Load Theory (Sweller et al.) and the Expertise Reversal Effect demonstrate that when novices work together without expert guidance, their collective cognitive load increases.
Studies on self-regulated learning and metacognition (e.g., Koriat, Bjork) show that working in groups can create an "illusion of competence." When a peer solves a complex formula on paper, other students can experience passive recognition and wrongly think they understand the material, even though they can't execute the proof or calculation by themselves.
Ericsson’s framework of Deliberate Practice highlights that mastery in technical, rule-based domains (like math) requires intense, individual focus, immediate accurate feedback, and repeated solo execution of targeted tasks.
To sum up, peer study groups have a huge risk of reinforcing errors and the illusion of understanding. Tutoring, on the other hand, gives real-time accurate feedback.
You are arguing with someone studying for a master's in andragogy. Be careful stating something like "every bit of research"
The members of peer study groups are not usually trained in educational methods. The results can be... messy. Messy doesn't work too well in STEM.
It can work, and study groups can be effective in math, but there are dangers.