Stop the Brain Fry: Protecting Human Intelligence from Artificial Exhaustion

Is your campus suffering from cognitive overload or true "brain fry"? As AI integrates into every facet of Higher Ed, the relentless pace of "prompt-and-pivot" is exhausting all staff and IT teams alike. This session bridges the gap between neural fatigue and technical efficiency. Drawing on the latest research and IT leadership frameworks, we will explore why AI causes unique mental exhaustion and the ethical implications of offloading critical thinking to machines. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to implement "Cognitive Guardrails"—practical techniques to maintain human agency, prevent burnout, and foster a sustainable AI culture. Join us to move past the hype and reclaim your mental bandwidth without losing your competitive edge.