Fostering Higher-Order Thinking with Generative AI: A Meta-Analysis

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 9:45 am
  In Poster Session: AI and Technology Integration in K-12 Education

Abstract

This meta-analysis investigates the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) on students' higher-order thinking (HOT). A total of 24 experimental and quasi-experimental studies published between 2022 and 2025 were analyzed, yielding 35 effect sizes. Results indicate that GAI has a statistically significant moderate effect on HOT (Hedges’ g = 0.636, p < .001). Moderator analysis shows that the effect varies by class size, with the strongest impact observed in groups of 30–50 students. These findings suggest that GAI tools such as ChatGPT and similar models can effectively support the development of HOT, particularly in well-structured instructional environments.

Authors

• Mingchen Wei, East China Normal University

• Hao Lei, East China Normal University

• Longyue Fang, East China Normal University