NJ Faculty Combat AI in Classrooms with Blue Books, No Tech

As artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly integrates into various aspects of education, universities face substantial challenges regarding academic integrity. An innovative approach has emerged among some educators in New Jersey, who are combating these issues with traditional methods, such as banning technology in classrooms, reintroducing physical writing tools, and emphasizing direct engagement with students.

New Approaches to Defend Against AI Cheating

Colleges and universities are witnessing a surge in student dependence on AI tools for completing assignments. Instances of using AI, like ChatGPT, to generate essays and answers have prompted educators to rethink their teaching strategies. Professors are creatively adapting to these challenges by promoting “AI-resistant” classrooms.

Traditional Tools Are Making a Comeback

Amir Moosavi, an assistant professor at Rutgers-Newark, and Carlo Rotella, an English instructor at Boston College, have implemented strict no-tech policies. Their strategy is centered around returning to fundamental teaching practices.

• Students are now required to use blue books instead of laptops for essays.
• In-class assignments include oral exams and pop quizzes.
• Specificity in student writing is heavily emphasized.

Moosavi plans to ban cell phones in his classes by 2026, reinforcing the focus on genuine student effort rather than AI-generated shortcuts. Meanwhile, Rotella insists on the importance of handwritten work, maintaining his ban on laptops for decades.

Educational Challenges in the Digital Age

Both educators recognize the increasing difficulty of sustaining student attention in an age dominated by social media. Moosavi articulated concerns about students entering college with shorter attention spans and inadequate reading habits.

“Many students have never read an entire book,” he noted, attributing this trend to the distractions posed by platforms like TikTok. AI’s influence in education, according to Rotella, is detrimental when students rely on it for summaries instead of engaging with the material themselves.

Institutional Stance on AI Policies

At Rutgers University, the approach to AI tools is currently left to faculty discretion. Michele Norin, the Chief Information Officer, stated that it is premature for the institution to set definitive policies on AI use in classrooms. A steering committee that includes faculty, researchers, and students is expected to release recommendations in the spring.

Norin emphasized that faculty members have the autonomy to define their “rules of the road,” essentially tailoring their classrooms to either incorporate AI strategically or eliminate it entirely.

Future of Classroom Interaction

The emergence of AI has necessitated a shift in how educators interact with their students. Moosavi explained that he has increasingly adjusted testing formats and classroom interactions to remain effective in teaching amidst these technological advancements. His methods now involve using a LockDown browser for tests to minimize distractions from AI tools.

Ultimately, the challenge lies in balancing technological integration with the traditional values of focused, engaged learning. As educators continue navigating this evolving landscape, the emphasis remains on fostering genuine academic experiences over convenience provided by AI.

The revival of blue book exams and other conventional methods highlights a growing trend among educators seeking to protect the integrity of academic work amid the rise of AI-dependent shortcuts.