As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a bigger part of our lives, some employers have indicated a preference for hiring new employees with demonstrable AI skills. Despite this, colleges and universities are still nervous about their students using AI technology.

For example, Emory University awarded a $10,000 grant to students who created an AI study tool called Eightball. Then after giving the award and promoting their students' achievement, the school decided to suspend them because of alleged honor code violations relating to Eightball.

Do you find yourself (or your child) facing accusations of academic wrongdoing? If so, you must get in touch with the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm. You can reach us by either using our online contact form or calling us at 888-535-3686.

How Does “Eightball” Work?

Based on statements made by its creators, Eightball works by first connecting itself to Canvas (the software technology professors use to deliver course materials to students online). Eightball then scans through the course materials so users can use Eightball as a search engine to find specific class information. Eightball also allows students to use the information on Canvas to create study tools, such as flashcards and practice tests.

Eightball can help students in at least two ways. First, Eightball digests the information it gathers to create study materials. Second, it connects to Canvas, which makes it easier for students to provide it with class information to turn into study materials. Without Eightball connecting to Canvas, students have to manually upload every PDF document, video, slide, and recording into Eightball.

According to its creators, Eightball is in no way designed to complete assignments for students, such as writing papers or solving homework problems.

Why Did Emory University Suspend the Students?

It's hard to say for sure, based on the available information. The Emory University Honor Council that investigated the matter found no evidence that any students used Eightball to cheat or that its creators lied about its capabilities. However, the school expressed concern that Eightball could potentially be used for cheating.

More importantly, it appears as if the IT department of Emory University got upset because it believed that Eightball could create an online security risk because of how it connects to Canvas. The method involves API tokens, which Canvas users could use to connect their Canvas accounts to other apps. It's possible that Eightball makes use of this technology to access information on Canvas, although doing so might somehow compromise academic integrity as defined by Emory's Honor Code.

It seems as if Emory University disciplined the creators because it thought Eightball had the potential for cheating and the creators might have allegedly violated the Honor Code by using a particular process of connecting Eightball to Canvas.

Facing an Academic Suspension Related to AI?

This is a seemingly confusing and nonsensical situation. Unfortunately, schools sometimes discipline their students for what appears to be unfounded or complicated reasons. This story demonstrates the importance of contacting the Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team anytime there are accusations of academic dishonesty. If you feel your school is targeting you for alleged honor code violations or other misconduct, you should call us at 888-535-3686 or use our online contact form.