Effects of Partial vs. Full Cognitive Offloading with Generative AI on Learning Retention
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- 2026-07-23 07:15:51
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- 2026-07-23 07:15:51
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- Semantic Scholar2026-07-23 07:15:18Effects of Partial vs. Full Cognitive Offloading with Generative AI on Learning Retention
Even though the effects of Generative AI (GenAI) on learning retention are still not adequately understood, its use in higher education is increasing. Recent studies show that GenAI has the potential to improve immediate performance while undermining retention following the withdrawal of the tool. This study examines whether retention varies based on the degree of cognitive offloading in GenAI-supported learning. The study used a two-group quasi-experimental design, framed by cognitive load theory and the desirable difficulties principle, involving 63 students studying for their master's degrees at a Saudi public university. The full cognitive offloading group (FCO) used ChatGPT (GPT-4o), which provided direct responses. The group delegated substantial cognitive processing to GenAI. The partial cognitive offloading group (PCO) employed a custom GPT designed to provide structured guidance and scaffolding rather than answers, leaving the cognitive processes with the student. A researcher-developed cognitive test was used for measuring learning retention and was mapped to five levels of the revised Bloom's taxonomy. It was administered at three time points: pre-test, immediate post-test, and delayed post-test five weeks later. Data were analysed using a 2 x 3 mixed-design ANOVA, with follow-up MANOVA across the five levels of the revised Bloom’s taxonomy. Results indicate that PCO students outperformed FCO students at both post-tests, with the advantage extending across all five levels of Bloom’s taxonomy, and remaining stable across the five-week retention interval. The findings suggest that GenAI is more effective at supporting retention when used to scaffold the active reasoning of learners as opposed to substituting for their cognitive processing.