Effects of AI-Powered Learning Platforms on Students’ Academic Performance: Mediating Role of Critical Thinking in Enhancing Cognitive Development

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education represents a transformative shift in how teaching and learning occur. In recent years, AI-powered learning platforms have emerged as powerful tools, offering personalized learning experiences that adapt to individual student needs. The study aimed at to investigate the “Effects of AI-Powered Learning Platforms on Students’ Academic Performance: Mediating Role of Critical Thinking in Enhancing Cognitive Development”. The objectives of the study were; 1) To examine the impact of AI-powered learning platforms on students' academic performance. 2) To analyze the cognitive development of students using AI-powered learning platforms. 3) To evaluate the influence of AI-powered learning platforms on students' engagement. 4) To investigate the role of critical thinking in mediating the relationship between AI-powered learning platforms and academic performance. The Population of the study consists of all 17879 students of District Attock, Punjab, Pakistan at higher secondary level. Sample size of the study was 450. Simple Random sampling technique was used. Questionnaire was used as research tool for collecting data from the respondents. Cronbach’s Alpha was used for tool reliability. Content validity of the tool was found by five different experts of the educational research field. Coefficient Correlation and regression analysis was used for data analysis. The findings of the study identified a strong and statistically significant positive connection (r = .785, p < .01) between AI utilization and academic achievement, indicating that greater AI usage correlates with enhanced academic performance among students. Therefore, it is recommended for educational institutions to incorporate AI-driven tools and platforms into their curricula to augment individualized learning experiences, thereby assisting students in enhancing their academic performance.