An instructor from Texas A&M University is facing scrutiny after their misuse of AI technology to accuse their students of plagiarism. Dr. Jared Mumm, a rodeo instructor and teacher of agricultural classes, sent an email to his students informing many of them that they would be receiving a failing grade because the AI program ChatGPT, which OpenAI developed, claimed that the students had plagiarised. When students presented evidence that they had written their own assignments, Dr. Mumm allegedly wrote, “I don’t grade AI bulls***.”
OpenAI pointed out that ChatGPT is not completely reliable in detecting AI-generated material; after enough prodding, it has been known to fabricate sources. In response, Texas A&M University issued a statement saying no students have yet failed the class because of this incident, although their diplomas are still on hold pending individual investigations.
The incident has sparked heated debates among academics about the effects that AI programs like ChatGPT can have in the classroom. For example, the New York City public school system has banned the program, while others view AI as just another electronic aid like a calculator or digital academic database. Ultimately, this story highlights the impacts that the rise of AI technology can have in the classroom, both good and bad.
