Enhancing Student Adaptability and Reducing AI Dependence through an Interactive Learning and Mentorship Portal (ILMP)

This study presents the Interactive Learning and Mentorship Portal (ILMP), a web-based platform designed to help college students adapt to academic demands while preventing excessive dependence on artificial intelligence (AI). Recent research indicates that although AI can support academic tasks, overreliance may weaken cognitive abilities such as critical thinking, creativity, and autonomous learning (George et al., 2024; Khatri & Karki, 2023). Many students struggle with time management, deep comprehension, and independent study habits, and the convenience of AI-generated outputs often discourages genuine engagement and self-directed learning. The ILMP was created to address these challenges by providing an interactive and supportive digital learning environment. Key features including collaborative study groups, discussion forums, instructor-guided modules, and structured mentorship encourage active participation, reflective learning, and academic accountability. Through these support mechanisms, students build stronger academic routines and develop essential adaptability skills. A defining component of the ILMP is its emphasis on responsible and ethical AI integration. Instead of discouraging AI use, the system promotes balanced and informed utilization, guiding students to treat AI as an educational partner rather than a substitute for personal effort (Chan & Hu, 2023; U.S. Department of Education, 2023). This approach reinforces critical thinking, academic discipline, ethical digital practice, and learner autonomy. Overall, the ILMP functions not only as a learning platform but also as a community that cultivates resilience, academic integrity, and responsible technology use. The system demonstrates how AI can complement, not replace, human learning when guided appropriately, preparing students to thrive in technology-enhanced academic and professional settings.