In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is permeating every aspect of our lives at an unprecedented pace. However, the application of this new technology in the field of education has sparked a heated debate, with a case in Hingham, Massachusetts serving as a prime example.
The central figure in this incident is a senior at Hingham High School. According to his mother, Jennifer Harris, her son and a classmate used AI to gather research materials and outline a project for a group assignment. Although they did not allow the AI to write the paper directly, the school still imposed severe penalties. The student was not only suspended but also excluded from the National Honor Society, and more critically, this unfavorable record will be required to be disclosed in his college applications.
Ms. Harris emphasized that her son is an outstanding student, taking all honors and AP level courses, and even achieved a perfect score on the ACT. Yet, such a stellar student has suffered such severe punishment for using AI, raising questions about the school's decision.
What adds to the injustice is that, according to Harris, the school did not have a clear policy on AI use at the time of the incident. Her son was only punished after being questioned by school administrators twice. Harris's lawyer, Peter Farrell, stated, "If they really had (a policy), we wouldn't be here."
This incident has sparked widespread discussion about AI policies in the education sector. Bree Dusseault from Arizona State University revealed that about half of the U.S. states have issued guidelines on the use of AI in education. However, the discrepancies between state policies often leave students and teachers confused. Dusseault described the situation as "a real mess," noting that "it all depends on which state and district you're in—whether they will issue relevant guidance."
The Harris family hopes that through this lawsuit, they can prevent other students from being penalized due to unclear policies. They call for clearer AI usage guidelines from schools, comparing this challenge to the initial introduction of the internet into schools. Harris stressed, "AI is a tool, and we must figure out what is permissible and what is not."
Following this incident, Hingham Public Schools has issued new guidelines on AI use. Although the school has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, they will appear in court next week. Meanwhile, the National Education Association has also shared their AI policies passed during their annual conference, providing a reference for schools and educators.