The widespread use of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT has led to a significant increase in cheating in American schools. A recent survey found that 89% of college students admitted to using ChatGPT for homework, highlighting the extent of the problem. To combat this, some educators are bringing back traditional pen-and-paper exams, often conducted in "blue books," to ensure students aren't relying on AI assistance.
The return of blue books is seen as a promising step in addressing AI cheating, but experts believe there's still a long way to go. Detection tools designed to spot cheating have proven unreliable, and students increasingly view education as a high-stakes game to be manipulated using technology.
Universities are taking notice, with some investigating instances where students have allegedly used AI to generate work submitted as their own. Dr. Eugene Rex Jalao from the University of the Philippines expressed concern over students misrepresenting AI-generated content as their own, emphasizing the importance of academic integrity.
As the issue of AI cheating continues to grow, educators are faced with the challenge of developing new methods to evaluate student performance fairly and accurately. By reverting to traditional assessment methods and emphasizing academic integrity, educators hope to mitigate the impact of AI cheating and promote genuine learning experiences.
The shift back to traditional methods like blue books may seem old-fashioned, but it's a necessary step to ensure students are held to high standards of academic integrity. As AI technology continues to evolve, educators must adapt and find ways to promote original thought and work.
