Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 11, 2025

Author Spotlight: Addressing Technical and Subjective Challenges in Measuring Classroom Attention
Published on: December 15, 2023
Engagement modes and attitude polarization toward AI: the role of cognitive load and reliability among Chinese
Duan Bo1,2, Aini Azeqa Ma'rof1,3, Zeinab Zaremohzzabieh4
1Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.
Introduction:
This experimental study investigates how engagement modes with AI-related information-structured courses, group discussions, and self-directed research-influence attitude polarization and policy preferences among 132 Chinese undergraduates at a northern Chinese university. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to conditions over a six-week intervention, with cognitive load and perceived reliability assessed as key mechanisms.
Methods:
Participants were randomly assigned to conditions over a six-week intervention, with cognitive load and perceived reliability assessed as key mechanisms.
Results:
Hierarchical regression revealed structured courses, marked by high cognitive load and reliability, significantly reduced polarization (β = -0.32, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.11), while self-directed research increased it (β = 0.45, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.15). Self-reported polarization strongly correlated with pre-to-post-test shifts (r = 0.68, p < 0.001), validating the General Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale (GAAIS). Policy preferences mirrored these shifts, with structured courses fostering balanced stances (mean change = -0.15, SD = 0.40, p < 0.05).
Discussion:
This study suggests structured, reliable, cognitively demanding interventions mitigate polarization, offering theoretical insights into attitude formation and practical guidance for AI education and policy design.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Stereotype Content Model
Surveys
Introduction to Cognitive Psychology
This field emerged in the mid-20th century, following a period dominated by behaviorism, which...
Attitudes
Social Proof
Cognitive Dissonance

