Don't Outsource the Learning

This article discusses the hidden cost of using AI coding tools without actively learning. It warns that while AI boosts short-term productivity, it silently erodes the developer's mental model and problem-solving skills. Citing studies from Anthropic, MIT, and CHI 2026, the author shows that engineers who copy-paste AI-generated code score significantly lower on comprehension and debugging tests compared to those who use AI for conceptual questions. The piece emphasizes that the default use of AI optimizes for task completion, not skill growth, and urges developers to maintain an active learning posture to avoid cognitive debt and long-term career stagnation.