Is using AI for coursework acceptable? Opinions are split

The public is largely opposed to students using artificial intelligence (AI) to complete their school coursework, but the extent to which AI can be utilized to enhance grammar and punctuation, as well as in administrative tasks, is a matter of debate.

A new YouGov survey, commissioned by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, found that 89% of surveyed adults think it’s "unacceptable" for pupils to use AI to complete entire assignments, however, around half consider the use acceptable for improving grammar and punctuation.

More specifically, 46% of respondents don’t mind children turning to AI for enhancing writing mechanics while 44% disagree.

In total, only 16% thought that reducing or removing home assignments completely was the best way to tackle AI misuse.

In addition, the majority of UK adults are against teachers using AI to mark coursework but are okay with them using it for administrative tasks.

The research follows Jill Duffy, the chief executive of exam board OCR, who is urging a coordinated national strategy on AI after an independent curriculum and assessment review suggested considering a reduction in the "overall volume of assessment" at GCSE.

"The public is clear that coursework is too important to lose, even in the age of AI.”

According to Ms. Duffy, "AI is already in our schools and is not going away.” She encouraged to find a way to “adapt coursework so it is fit for the AI century,” seeing the findings as a challenge rather than a problem with no solution.

"A co-ordinated national strategy, with funding to ensure no schools are left behind, will build public confidence in its transformational potential.

"[AI] enables us to test different skills, and to reduce the intense volume of exams taken at 16."

Experts argue that AI integration at schools is essential as it can the personalize learning, automate administrative tasks, and give teachers deeper understanding of student progress.