Universities Rethink Assessment Methods Amid AI-Driven Academic Cheating Surge

The rise of artificial intelligence in education has forced universities to fundamentally rethink assessment methods as AI-driven cheating becomes increasingly prevalent. Tools like ChatGPT have made it possible for students to generate essays, solve math problems, and draft lab reports in seconds, raising concerns about what authentic learning looks like in 2025. To combat this, institutions are reviving the use of handwritten exams, with blue books gaining popularity at schools such as Texas A&M and UC Berkeley. Educators argue that handwritten exams not only reduce the risk of academic dishonesty but also improve critical thinking skills among students. However, critics caution that this approach may fall short in fostering deeper research and analytical abilities, particularly for complex topics that benefit from time, revision, and external resources. As AI continues to evolve, schools are exploring a range of strategies, from oral exams to process-based assignments, to balance the need for academic integrity with the realities of a rapidly changing technological landscape.