The rapid development of artificial intelligence technology, exemplified by ChatGPT, significantly impacts the cultivation of higher-order abilities. ChatGPT shows great promise in advanced ability cultivation by offering personalized instruction, enhancing autonomous learning, fostering critical thinking, and improving problem-solving skills. Additionally, it can stimulate innovative and creative capabilities through diverse approaches. However, the integration of ChatGPT in higher-order ability cultivation also presents risks. Excessive dependence on data may undermine learners’ initiative, trap them in information cocoons, and narrow their thinking mode. Furthermore, virtual dependence may alienate social-emotional skills. Addressing these challenges requires a people-oriented approach that reinforces students’ active roles, multi-stakeholder involvement to mitigate data ethical risks, and enhanced cognitive and educational training goals. ChatGPT presents a valuable tool for driving educational reform and innovation. By navigating its opportunities and challenges strategically, educators can leverage this technology to enhance higher-order ability cultivation, equipping learners with the essential skills to thrive in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.