Teachers: How to Fairly Handle Suspected AI Use in Essays
A Practical, Ethical Guide for Educators in the Age of AI-Assisted Writing
Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Quillbot have become widely accessible to students. As educators, it’s natural to worry about whether students are using these tools unethically—particularly when it comes to essay writing. But while AI presents new challenges, it also offers an opportunity to rethink how we approach teaching, learning, and assessment.
Why It's Important to Handle AI Use Fairly
Jumping to conclusions about AI use can have serious consequences. False accusations damage trust, morale, and student well-being. That’s why a fair, informed approach is critical. By focusing on transparency, education, and due process, teachers can help students understand ethical boundaries without discouraging the legitimate use of technology.
Step 1: Know the Tools
Before you can fairly assess suspected AI use, you need to understand how these tools work. ChatGPT generates text based on prompts; Grammarly and Quillbot enhance or rephrase content. Some tools leave detectable patterns—others don’t. Use your professional judgment, but avoid relying solely on AI detectors, which are often inaccurate.
Step 2: Establish Clear Policies Up Front
Make expectations around AI use explicit in your syllabus. Clarify what constitutes acceptable versus unacceptable use. Some teachers allow Grammarly or spell-checking tools; others ban anything that rewrites or generates text. Define terms like "original work" and "outside assistance."
Include examples, such as:
- Acceptable: Using Grammarly for grammar suggestions
- Unacceptable: Copy-pasting full essays from ChatGPT
Step 3: Design AI-Resistant Assignments
Craft prompts that require personal reflection, classroom references, or iterative drafting. Consider in-class writing checkpoints and oral presentations. These methods make it more difficult for students to rely solely on AI and encourage genuine engagement with the material.
Step 4: Gather Evidence Thoughtfully
If you suspect AI use, document your concerns:
- Is the student’s voice different from prior work?
- Does the writing lack specific details covered in class?
- Are AI detector tools giving consistent, reliable signals?
Don’t act on one data point alone. AI detectors like Turnitin or GPTZero can help—but they’re not definitive. Consider talking with the student to understand their process before making assumptions.
Step 5: Talk to the Student Respectfully
Approach the student calmly and privately. Begin with curiosity, not accusations. Ask how they approached the assignment. Students may admit to using tools without realizing they’ve crossed a line—or they may be innocent.
Create a space where students feel safe explaining themselves. Frame the conversation as a learning opportunity, not a disciplinary threat.
Step 6: Use a Consistent Process for Handling Violations
If you determine that a violation occurred, follow your school’s academic integrity policy. Consistency is key. Document the case thoroughly. Ensure students have a chance to respond or appeal. Avoid making public examples of students or escalating without due process.
Step 7: Educate, Don’t Just Punish
Many students use AI without understanding that it can be a form of academic dishonesty. Use incidents as teaching moments. Offer follow-up assignments that reinforce integrity, such as reflective essays, revision projects, or AI literacy modules.
Step 8: Embrace the Future of Writing
Rather than treating AI as the enemy, help students learn how to use it responsibly. Just as calculators didn’t end math instruction, AI won’t end writing. Teach students how to prompt effectively, cite AI tools, and reflect on their use. Incorporate AI into classroom discussions and assignments.
Conclusion
AI is here to stay. As a teacher, your role isn’t to police every keyboard—it’s to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and integrity. With empathy, clear guidelines, and thoughtful engagement, you can help students navigate the evolving landscape of writing in the digital age.
