Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are now part of daily life for most young people. Students use them to brainstorm, research, summarise and write.
However, AI should not be used to generate coursework without proper disclosure. This is cheating, and the consequences, which can include losing a qualification entirely, are serious.
Despite this, some students may be about to submit their coursework without ever having a direct conversation with their teacher about what is or isn't acceptable.
This blog explains why that conversation is important, and the resources we’ve developed to help you have it.
But beyond the rules, there's a more important reason to address this with your students: when AI does the work, they miss out on the learning.
Real learning builds real knowledge and skills
The knowledge and skills students develop through completing their own coursework, finding their own material, working through a problem and thinking independently will serve them well in higher education and employment. In an AI enabled workplace, being knowledgeable, and skillful enough to apply that knowledge critically to what the AI is doing, will add critical value.
When a student submits AI-generated work as their own, they aren't finding a shortcut to success. They're bypassing the very process that builds the capabilities they'll need later. As a teacher, spotting and addressing this isn't just about enforcing rules. It's about protecting students’ long-term prospects.
Starting the conversation
Many teachers are already thinking about how to respond. Fifty-five per cent plan to ask students to explain their work if they have concerns, and 40% intend to speak to students about AI rules before submission. That's encouraging.
If you're not yet sure how to approach this, you're not alone. You don't need to have all the answers before starting the conversation. Frame it around what students stand to gain from doing their own work, and what they stand to lose if they don't. Most students respond better to understanding the 'why' than simply being told the rules.
Resources to help you
To support you in having these conversations, we've developed 2 classroom resources:
- A lesson plan designed to help you or your colleagues lead a discussion with your students about AI and coursework. It walks through how to open the conversation and explain why it matters, and covers the real consequences of malpractice, from losing grades to affecting future applications. The plan includes suggested scripts, discussion questions and tips for handling grey areas, so you can hold the conversation with confidence.
- A senior leadership team briefing pack to help school and college leaders develop a whole-school approach to AI in assessed work. Consistent messaging across your institution makes it easier for every teacher to hold the line, and ensures students hear a clear, unified message.
The pack supports leaders in equipping their staff and ensuring students understand the rules before it's too late.
Both resources are available to download now.
Your role makes a difference
You're well placed to shape how your students approach this. A single honest conversation can make a lasting impression.
Real learning builds genuine skills. That's worth protecting.
Amanda Swann, Executive Director of Delivery, Ofqual
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