1. EachPod

When Your AI Assistant Becomes Academic Misconduct

Author
Kieran Gilmurray
Published
Wed 23 Jul 2025
Episode Link
https://kierangilmurray.com/

Artificial intelligence is transforming education at warp speed, raising urgent questions about academic integrity in the age of ChatGPT. This episode unpacks the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) guidance on AI use in assessments - essential listening for students, teachers, parents, and anyone curious about the future of education.

TLDR:

  • AI tools include text generators like ChatGPT, image creators like Midjourney, and other content-generating systems
  • Work submitted for qualification assessments must be entirely the student's own
  • AI misuse includes copying/paraphrasing AI content or using it for analysis without acknowledgment
  • Real cases show severe consequences like zero marks or disqualification even for "accidental" misuse
  • Simply acknowledging AI properly won't prevent mark reductions if you haven't shown your own skills


We dive deep into what constitutes AI misuse, from copying chatbot responses to failing to properly acknowledge AI assistance. The consequences are more severe than many realize: examples from real cases show students receiving zero marks or even complete disqualification from qualifications for improper AI use, sometimes despite good intentions. One history student was disqualified from their entire A-level for accidentally submitting AI guidelines instead of their work.

Beyond the rules, we explore the practical aspects of AI in education. Schools and colleges bear significant responsibility for educating students about appropriate AI use while implementing detection strategies. For students who want to use AI legitimately, we break down the proper acknowledgment requirements - but here's the crucial catch: even perfect citation won't earn you marks if the AI did the critical thinking for you.

As these powerful tools become increasingly sophisticated and harder to detect, the fundamental questions about assessment itself grow more complex. How will we continue to accurately measure human understanding, creativity, and critical thinking? Join us as we navigate these challenging waters at the intersection of technology and education.

Have you encountered AI tools in your studies or teaching? Share your experiences and let us know how you're adapting to this rapidly evolving landscape.

Support the show


𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 my team and I to get business results, not excuses.

☎️ https://calendly.com/kierangilmurray/results-not-excuses
✉️ [email protected]
🌍 www.KieranGilmurray.com
📘 Kieran Gilmurray | LinkedIn
🦉 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/KieranGilmurray
📽 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KieranGilmurray

📕 Want to learn more about agentic AI then read my new book on Agentic AI and the Future of Work https://tinyurl.com/MyBooksOnAmazonUK

Share to: