In recent years, AI has taken the world by storm. Suddenly, asking a computer – that talks back – for help on your homework, projects, and take-home exams is easier than ever. This new reality has forced many institutions to begin barring the use of AI in academic work. Though, some have actually embraced AI and partnered with different companies to give students the opportunity to learn the material in a way that works for them. But what happens when those same students are then accused of academic misconduct? How does the university or college decide which use of AI is considered misconduct and how students should be punished?

The truth is, there just isn't enough policy and information available, making the disciplinary proceedings vary from school to school. If you are accused of academic misconduct after using an AI tool, you contact the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm for help.

Accusations of Academic Misconduct Because of AI

In July 2023, at Fortune's Brainstorm Tech, the CEO of Chegg, Dan Rosenweig, told audience members how their AI platform was created to help students with their education by bringing the learning experience to the individual student's level of understanding. The hope is that by meeting the student where they are, they will be able to master the subject.

While giving his talk during the conference, a 2021 Harvard graduate, Nadya Okamoto, expressed skepticism about the app. She stated that when she used it while studying at Harvard, her only intention was to get the answers to the problems and receive good marks on her academic work, not to actually learn the material. Rosenweig responded that the app wasn't created for ivy league students with all the tools and resources but for the student who is working 40 hours a week and needs extra tutoring or explanation to master a concept.

How the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team Can Help

When you are accused of academic misconduct, your entire life trajectory can unravel quickly, and if you are found responsible for such accusations, it can cause even harsher consequences, such as postponing graduate school indefinitely or canceling your financial assistance. Your attorney-advisor will be able to review the allegations claimed against you and pinpoint how the university is overstepping. For instance, if you are one of those students who work full time to pay for college and use AI to review what they've learned, reinforcing the principles necessary to pass their exams, you shouldn't be accused of violating academic misconduct. And if you are accused, and the university has no policy against AI tutoring, they should be held accountable to provide due process.

By working with a Student Defense Team that understands both the nuances of academic misconduct defense and the complexities of AI assistance, you can guarantee the best possible outcome for your case. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.