A randomized study of over 1,000 students at Bocconi University, in collaboration with OpenAI Economic Research, explored how ChatGPT access and critical-thinking training affect student work. Results showed distinct benefits: ChatGPT improved answer quality and coherence, while causal-reasoning training boosted idea uniqueness. Students receiving both showed combined gains.

The study suggests AI tools enhance polish, but training fosters originality, highlighting the need for balanced assessment methods. AI helped novices produce more professional work, but critical-thinking exercises encouraged broader, more distinct ideas. This research underscores the complementary roles of AI and human skills in education.