Précis: “Is Relying on AI Cognitive ‘Offloading’ or ‘Outsourcing’?” by Natalie Wexler (2026)

In her article “Is Relying on AI Cognitive ‘Offloading’ or ‘Outsourcing’?” (2026), Natalie Wexler argues that educators and researchers should distinguish between cognitive offloading and cognitive outsourcing when discussing artificial intelligence. Drawing on cognitive psychologist Paul Kirschner’s work, Wexler explains that cognitive offloading involves transferring one’s own thoughts or information to external supports, such as outlines or notes, to reduce working-memory demands while still engaging in thinking. In contrast, cognitive outsourcing occurs when individuals delegate the thinking process itself to AI tools, allowing technology to generate ideas, outlines, or written work on their behalf.

Wexler contends that while offloading supports cognition and learning, outsourcing risks replacing the mental effort necessary for developing critical thinking, comprehension, creativity, and writing skills. Citing a Brookings Institution report on AI in education, she notes evidence that students who rely heavily on AI may become dependent on it, resulting in weaker memory retention and diminished reasoning abilities. Because writing is a particularly demanding cognitive activity, students are especially vulnerable to using AI to avoid the productive struggle that fosters learning.

The author concludes that schools should not ban AI outright but should equip teachers to provide explicit, systematic writing instruction so students can develop the skills needed to engage in genuine cognitive work. Wexler maintains that understanding the difference between offloading and outsourcing is essential because excessive reliance on AI may undermine students’ intellectual growth and academic potential.

Wexler, N. (2026, January 18). Is Relying on AI Cognitive “Offloading” or “Outsourcing”? The terminology we use makes a difference. Substack: Minding the Gap. Located at: https://nataliewexler.substack.com/p/is-relying-on-ai-cognitive-offloading