With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, more and more college students are using AI tools to write academic papers or complete graduation projects. While this trend improves writing efficiency, it also raises serious concerns about academic integrity and originality. Recently, many universities have introduced policies to regulate students' use of AI in academic writing, especially in graduation theses and design projects.
For example, Fudan University took the lead in releasing the “Fudan University Regulations on the Use of AI Tools in Undergraduate Graduation Theses (Designs) (Trial Implementation)”, becoming the first domestic management document targeting AI writing. This policy aims to define the boundaries of AI use and encourage students to utilize this emerging tool more rationally. Furthermore, many other universities, including Communication University of China and Beijing Normal University, have followed suit, formulating relevant regulations to ensure the rigor and originality of academic work.
Image Source Note: Image generated by AI, image authorization provider Midjourney
Many students, when writing their graduation theses, say that AI tools do help in finding information and organizing it. However, some students have gone down the wrong path of relying on AI for plagiarism. Xiao Zhang is one example; for convenience, he chose a paper writing agency, only to find that the quality of the paper was poor and contained AI-generated content. This experience made him realize that relying on others or machines could have consequences beyond failing grades, potentially impacting his academic integrity.
Meanwhile, the academic community is discussing how to detect AI-generated content. Experts from the Beijing Research Institute of Digital Economy and Digital Governance Law point out that existing AI detection software, while able to identify certain characteristics, is not perfect and may lead to misjudgments, causing trouble for students. Therefore, universities must carefully consider how to balance academic integrity with technological advancement when formulating relevant policies.
In conclusion, while AI offers convenience in writing, university policies remind students to maintain a thirst for knowledge and exploration, rather than treating writing as a purely technical operation. Only in this way can the true value of academic research be realized.
