Melbourne, June 9: In a notable incident at a prominent school in Melbourne, Year 12 students were caught using artificial intelligence (AI) tools for cheating during their exams. Local media reports indicate that these students faced penalties in the form of reduced marks.
According to The Age, several students at Mazenod College in Mulgrave were discovered utilizing AI tools during their English oral examinations. It is estimated that around 50 students may have sought AI assistance during the test, although the school administration has not confirmed this number officially.
As reported by news.com.au, a source connected to the case revealed that teachers deducted marks after discovering that students had used AI to prepare their oral presentations.
This assignment is a crucial component of the Year 12 English Unit 4 exam, worth a total of 20 marks. Students are required to deliver a three to five-minute speech on a social, political, or contemporary issue of their choice, presenting their viewpoints.
The scores from this assessment contribute to the students’ English study scores, which play a significant role in determining their final Year 12 ranking, known as the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). This rank is essential for university and higher education institution admissions.
The use of AI in this examination is viewed as a serious academic misconduct, raising concerns about the integrity of the assessment and the true capabilities of the students.
Mazenod College Principal Paul Shannon stated that indications of AI tool usage were detected during the review of the Year 12 oral English exam process. Following this, a thorough investigation was conducted, and discussions were held with the involved students.
He noted that all necessary procedures regarding the exam results were followed, and the matter was reported to the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA). After the investigation, appropriate mark deductions were made for students found to have violated the rules.
Paul Shannon emphasized that the increasing use of AI in schools presents a new and serious challenge. He asserted that AI-based assistance has no place in academic assessments and examinations, as it undermines fairness and academic integrity.
According to the guidelines from the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, the use of generative AI in any assessment can be considered a violation of academic integrity rules. Such cases should be investigated under the school’s established policies and disciplinary procedures.
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