Artificial intelligence has long been a source of anxiety and fear in sci-fi novels and films. With the arrival of ChatGPT, AI has finally broken through the mainstream and become a household tool. Academics are concerned – the new technology has significant ramifications for student work. While assessing student learning is a valid concern, some argue that ChatGPT could actually help combat academic ghostwriting. AI may enhance academic integrity and level the playing field for all students.

The Ghostwriting Reality

Academic ghostwriting, or contract cheating, occurs when students submit work written by someone else as their own. While cheating itself is not new, this form of academic dishonesty is on the rise. Time-poor students juggle multiple jobs to meet rising education costs. Many turn to internet-based ghostwriting services when a deadline sneaks up on them. Plagiarism-detection tools have been used to tackle the most blatant forms of academic misconduct, but contract cheating remains an issue.

Of course, using such a service isn't without risk. Ghostwriting websites store personal data and expose students to potential blackmail and extortion. Even if the worst-case scenario never comes to fruition, cheating leads to a compromised academic experience. For the good of their students, universities are taking proactive measures to prevent the use of contract cheating sites.

ChatGPT as an Educational Tool

Rather than seeing ChatGPT as a threat, schools must explore its potential as an educational tool. ChatGPT requires student engagement, as they guide the AI through the process of researching and writing. Students retain control over their intellectual journey by crafting prompts, defining research questions, assessing generated content, and integrating their original thoughts into the final product.

ChatGPT also has the power to disrupt the contract cheating landscape. By providing students with free, instant, and accessible resources, ghostwriting services become obsolete. By using natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, ChatGPT offers personalized feedback with the click of a button. The tool can refine citations, provide style guides, and help students properly credit sources to avoid plagiarism. ChatGPT can even assess author backgrounds and recommend alternative readings, exposing students to diverse viewpoints.

The Changing Role of AI On Campus

Over time, ChatGPT may well become to language what the calculator is to math. Most schools acknowledge the benefits of AI but struggle to integrate it into their curricula. There are a number of unique challenges that schools and students face in regard to AI. By actively engaging students, providing instant feedback, promoting originality, refining citation practices, and leveling the playing field, though, ChatGPT can revolutionize the way students approach their assignments.

In part two of this blog series, we'll dive into more of the pitfalls students face when using AI and how schools can strike a balance between harnessing the power of AI and avoiding the consequences that misuse may entail.

Uncertain where your school stands on AI use? The educational law team at the Lento Law Firm can help. Contact us today by calling 888-535-3686 or reach out online.