Research from a Boston University student has recently shed light on the extent to which students use ChatGPT. Boston University College of Arts & Sciences student Dima Ghalili surveyed students on their usage of artificial intelligence tools for academic purposes. Seventy-five percent of surveyed students indicated they use ChatGPT in some capacity for schoolwork.  

Survey responses also indicate at least some students may use ChatGPT to cheat. Students caught cheating with ChatGPT may be subject to disciplinary action. 

Are you facing allegations of college academic misconduct due to your use of ChatGPT or other such tools? The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team may help if so. Learn more by calling us today at 888.535.3686 or by contacting us online. 

Survey Indicates BU Students Cheat with ChatGPT 

According to Ghalili's research, approximately eight percent of surveyed students admit to using ChatGPT to generate text for assignments. These students admit to incorporating this text into their academic work without citing a source or altering the text in any substantial way. 

Some of the survey participants also indicated that they did not believe or realize using ChatGPT in this way constitutes cheating. Such responses highlight the importance of educating students on how they can and can't use these tools. As Ghalili puts it, “You're given all this new technology [as a student], but not necessarily the guidance to go with it.” 

Boston University faculty members also report increased incidences of academic misconduct involving ChatGPT usage in recent years. Andrea Mercurio, a senior lecturer in psychological and brain sciences who participates in misconduct councils, has said her most recent misconduct cases have typically involved students misusing ChatGPT.  

Students don't just use the tool to generate text for essays and similar assignments. They may also use it to write code or generate other material that they should generate themselves. 

Handling Accusations of Cheating via ChatGPT 

There's no universal standard regarding what does and doesn't qualify as cheating or academic misconduct when students use ChatGPT. Universities must provide guidance to ensure students know when they're using AI tools appropriately. 

Students may face a range of penalties if they're caught cheating with ChatGPT. Depending on a school's policies, a student who uses ChatGPT to engage in academic misconduct might face expulsion. 

Keep the following tips in mind if you ever face such accusations: 

• Attempting to explain yourself could backfire. Even if you know the situation is a misunderstanding, and you have used ChatGPT appropriately, making any statements at all could be risky.  
• Saving evidence is critical right now. Save all emails and other forms of correspondence regarding your case. You may also cite the school's policies to show that you haven't committed a violation. 

Most importantly, don't panic. Focus on building a strong defense with help from a local attorney. 

Hire the Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team for a ChatGPT Academic Misconduct Issue 

Defending yourself against accusations of cheating is easier when you have proper representation. That's exactly what the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team offers. Learn more about what we at the Lento Law Firm can do for you by contacting us online or calling us at 888.535.3686.