From Turnitin to Copyleaks, AI plagiarism detection tools are growing in popularity. However, academics are voicing concerns around how effective these tools truly are for detecting cheating, and whether they could be damaging relationships between students and faculty.  

So, why are academics doubting AI-detector tools, and what does this mean for students accused of cheating? Our Education Law Team considers the answers to these questions and more below.  

Despite growing skepticism over AI-detector tools, students could still face serious consequences if their school suspects cheating or other academic misconduct. Call the Lento Law Firm Team now at 888.535.3686 or reach out online if you're accused of academic misconduct, including cheating.  

What Is AI Detection? 

AI-detector tools use special algorithms to spot changes in language, tone, diction, and grammar. They're used on college campuses to detect forms of academic misconduct, such as cheating.  

Typically, students submit their work through the AI-detector tool. The algorithms flag anything which may suggest that a student has plagiarized content, or used some form of artificial assistance to complete an assignment. Professors can then investigate the project (such as an essay, exam, or assignment) more closely. Should the professor suspect cheating, they may take disciplinary action against the student involved.    

What Academics Are Saying About AI-Detector Tools for Cheating 

Academics are concerned that, although AI-detector tools are helpful, they're often unreliable and inaccurate. There's a significant risk of creating a cloud of suspicion on campus, where students are presumed to be cheating because an algorithm detects an unusual sentence pattern or change in tone. In the worst cases, this could lead to penalizing students who are perfectly innocent, leaving permanent marks on their academic record – and even leading to suspension or expulsion from a program. 

The Future of AI Cheating Detection Tools in College 

What's the answer? Academics aren't sure. However, there's a growing consensus that professors know their students better than any AI detection tool. Although AI detection may be useful, there's no substitute for a professor getting to know their students and their writing style.  

Moreover, there's concern about what even counts as “AI.” There's a real risk that students could use a tool, such as a grammar assistant, thinking that it's an acceptable way to edit their work when it breaks school conduct codes. As AI becomes more entrenched in academic life, the lines between prohibited and permissible uses of technology are blurring. For students accused of cheating or plagiarism, it may be possible to use this confusion as a defense.    

Defending Cheating and Plagiarism Accusations 

Ultimately, AI detection is just one tool in a professor's toolbox for identifying cheating. Students must still proceed with caution and ensure they understand what is - and what's not - acceptable use of technology on assignments. However, schools have a clear responsibility to uphold due process by providing clear, acceptable use policies so that students can proceed with confidence. If schools fail to provide clear instructions or rules, then students accused of cheating with AI deserve the chance to challenge any disciplinary action taken against them.  

If you're accused of plagiarism or cheating by AI detectors, know that it's possible to defend the allegations. At the Lento Law Firm, our attorneys are committed to ensuring that all students have a fair chance to tell their side of the story. Contact us online now, or call 888.535.3686 to schedule a meeting. Our Education Law Team looks forward to meeting you.