Title: University of York Leads Investigation into AI Chatbot Cheating Among Russell Group Universities
According to recent findings, the University of York has been at the forefront of investigating students suspected of using AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, to cheat on assessments. Since December 2022, a staggering 20 University of York students have come under scrutiny, with five students already having been found guilty. Numerous ongoing investigations suggest that the actual number of students involved may be even higher.
Startling statistics obtained by The Tab indicate that over 40 percent of universities in the UK have initiated investigations into students exploiting AI technologies to cheat. Among these institutions, the University of York has undertaken the highest number of investigations within the esteemed Russell Group universities.
To address this concerning issue, the University of York issued a warning to students in March, explicitly stating that the use of generative AI in current assessments would be regarded as academic misconduct.
Responses received from freedom of information requests submitted to 114 universities across the nation have revealed that nearly 400 students have been subjected to investigations for utilizing AI chatbots during their assessed work. Notably, 146 students have been found guilty thus far, while many cases remain under investigation.
Although York ranks eighth in terms of overall investigations among the 114 universities, it still stands as the leader within the Russell Group universities. The University of Kent occupies the top spot nationally, having conducted 47 investigations and finding 22 students guilty. However, it is important to note that these figures likely underestimate the true extent of students using ChatGPT for illicit purposes.
At the University of York, students found guilty of cheating with ChatGPT have faced severe consequences, including receiving a mark of zero on their assessments or, in some cases, a maximum mark of 29. Additionally, these students have been required to attend academic integrity tutorials. It is worth mentioning that, as of yet, no student has been expelled nationally for using ChatGPT to cheat.
In a communication to students in March, the University of York warned that the use of generative AI during online exams would be treated as cheating. They provided helpful tips to avoid academic misconduct, including maintaining records of draft work and notes, being prepared to explain answers and the process of arriving at them, and, of course, refraining from using generative AI to create or amend assessments.
More recent developments reveal that the University of York, alongside other Russell Group universities, has introduced new guidelines on teaching students how to ethically utilize ChatGPT for academic purposes. Furthermore, these institutions aim to enhance the AI literacy of both students and staff.
In response to the findings, a university spokesperson stated that the figures demonstrate the effectiveness of their guidance in identifying, monitoring, and addressing concerns related to this technology. However, they emphasized the importance of harnessing artificial intelligence advancements to enhance learning experiences while also seeking to review current policies in line with technological advancements.
It is essential to note that one of the Russell Group universities did not respond to The Tab’s freedom of information request. The investigation into ChatGPT cheating continues across various higher education institutions, marking a substantial challenge for academic integrity.
In conclusion, the University of York’s proactive approach to investigating AI chatbot cheating represents an ongoing battle faced by universities across the UK. The university’s commitment to maintaining academic standards and exploring appropriate applications of AI highlights the necessity for evolving policies in synchronization with technological advancements, ultimately fostering a conducive and robust learning environment.
