Outlet Title

Issues in Information Systems

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This study investigates how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) influences human agency, critical thinking, and creativity through a systematic literature review (SLR). Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search across five databases yielded 30 studies. A thematic analysis approach was applied to identify key mechanisms and conditions shaping human agency. The findings reveal that human agency and critical thinking are primarily influenced by mechanisms related to control, transparency, collaboration, and cognitive regulation, while over-reliance acts as a boundary condition. GenAI enhances creativity when used as a collaborative, iterative, and human-centered tool that supports idea generation and co-creation, but limits it when dependency reduces originality and critical engagement. The study proposes a GenAI-Human Agency Model and contributes to theory and practice by providing a design framework for human-in-the-loop and sociotechnical, and AI-supported learning systems that promote active engagement and responsible use.

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