So, how can you detect if your students are using AI? Here are a few signs to look out for:

High-quality work

If you notice a sudden significant improvement in a student's work, it could be an indication that they are using an AI-powered tool. These tools can generate high-quality writing that is plagiarism-free.

Lack of mistakes

AI-powered tools can help students avoid spelling and grammar errors. If you come across an assignment with no mistakes, it might be a sign that the student has used an AI tool to complete it.

Unusual formatting

Some AI-powered tools have unique formatting or font styles that are not commonly used. If you notice an assignment with an unusual format, it could be a clue that an AI tool was used.

Inconsistencies in style

If you observe inconsistencies in a student's writing style or vocabulary across different assignments, it could indicate the use of an AI tool. The software may generate phrases that are unnatural for the student or are above their reading level.

Detecting AI Use with AI Detectors

Ironically, but true: you can check whether artificial intelligence was used by a student or not with the help of AI services. For example, you can use free AI detectors like Scribbr or CopyLeaks. However, let's make it clear: don't trust the results of such services 100%. They can might be inaccurate. Nevertheless, if such tools after checking the work show a high probability that the text was written by a bot and not a student, this is an additional signal for you.

How to approach and resolve an issue with your student

If you suspect a student is using AI to complete their homework, you can review their past work. Once you have confirmed the use of AI, it is important to address the issue with the student. Start by discussing why cheating is unacceptable and explain the consequences of being caught.

Encourage the student to put more effort into their assignments and seek help when needed. Consider implementing academic integrity policies and ensuring that students understand the expectations for original work. Detecting AI cheating requires attention to detail, but by being aware of the signs, educators can identify and address these issues before they become more problematic. Remember to focus on education and encourage students to take pride in their own research and writing.