How Generative Artificial Intelligence Promotes the Cultivation of Higher-Order Thinking Skills: A Systematic Review of 68 Empirical Studies

Abstract

High-Order thinking skills (HOTSs) are necessitated in advanced cognitive activities, including creative thinking, problem solving, critical thinking, and more. HOTSs cultivation in education has garnered wide attention in academia. Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), with its features of multimodal generation, personalized interaction, and expanded support, has the potential to open new pathways for fostering higher-order thinking. Nevertheless, its misuse could lead to technology dependence, hindering deeper cognitive development in learners. How to effectively leverage GenAI to promote the cultivation of HOTSs has become a salient subject in current educational research and practice. This study is a systematic review of high-quality empirical research on the subject conducted in China and other countries since November 2022, aiming to find answers to key questions such as “Which HOTSs can GenAI help foster in learners?”, “How does it foster them?” and “What are the outcomes of GenAI use?”, with the goal of providing theoretical and practical insights for cultivating top-notch innovative talents.