As companies move to more AI code writing, humans may not have the necessary skills to validate and debug the AI-written code if their skill formation was inhibited by using AI in the first place, researchers find.

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Anthropic researchers conducted a controlled study with 52 junior developers learning a new Python library. Those using AI coding assistants completed tasks faster but scored 17 percentage points lower on comprehension tests compared to developers who coded manually. The biggest skill gaps appeared in debugging and understanding why code fails. Developers who passively accepted AI output showed the worst outcomes, while those who actively engaged by asking conceptual questions and manually reviewing generated code retained more knowledge. The research suggests AI can boost speed but may inhibit skill development if used without cognitive engagement, particularly for junior developers.

AI use may speed code generation, but developers’ skills suffer