From Grammarly to Chat-GPT, there is no shortage of artificial intelligence (AI) learning tools students can use to further their studies. But where do schools draw the line between legitimate “assistance” and cheating, and what should students do if they're accused of crossing this line?

These are the types of questions that students in Massachusetts found themselves confronted with when a federal judge recently upheld a school district's decision to discipline them for violating academic integrity rules. Below, we consider what happened in the case and what the ruling means for students accused of cheating.

For help with cheating allegations, reach out to the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888.535.3686 or talk to us online.

Academic Dishonesty Allegations

In 2023, Hingham High School officials alleged that two students cheated on an AP U.S. History project. The school claimed that the students submitted AI-generated content rather than submitting their own original work. They also failed to acknowledge using AI tools. This went beyond the school's accepted use of AI (namely, to find relevant sources and brainstorm topics).

As punishment, the school imposed failing grades and detention. One student failed to achieve admission to the school's National Honor Society due to the allegations, and they petitioned the court to overturn the school's decision.

The Court's Decision

The court upheld the school's decision after drawing a distinction between using AI tools for brainstorming – a permitted use of AI – and passing off AI-generated content as their own – a prohibited use of AI. Consequently, the court agreed with the disciplinary sanctions imposed.

How Does the Ruling Affect Students Accused of Cheating?

Put simply, the ruling has two key implications for any student accused of cheating.

• Students must ensure that they fully understand their school's stance on using AI during their studies. If in doubt, students should ask and keep a record of their school's response.
• AI is evolving at an incredible pace. But schools are using an increasingly wide range of tools – and tactics – to prove their case against accused students. This means that students facing cheating accusations must seek prompt legal advice to protect their position and devise a strategy for going forward.

What to Do if You're Accused of Cheating Using AI

Facing cheating accusations? Don't panic. Instead, take these immediate practical steps:

• Ensure you're clear on exactly what you're accused of. Ask for details of the allegations in writing and keep all correspondence you have with your school.
• Gather any evidence you have, such as assignment instructions, notes, and your school's academic honesty guidelines. It may be possible to argue that the school's rules are unclear or that the sanctions proposed are disproportionate.
• Continue to attend your regular classes and complete your scheduled assignments. This ensures your academic progress.

You should also urgently contact the Lento Law Firm. Our Student Defense Team will help you with everything from liaising with your school to directly challenging cheating allegations. We will do everything we can to help you protect the future you're trying to build. Call now at 888.535.3686 or reach the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team online.