Colleges Should Embrace Medieval Learning to Combat AI Cheating

Reviving Medieval Education in a Tech-Driven World

In a thought-provoking op-ed, Clay Shirky, vice provost for AI and technology in education at New York University, has ignited a conversation on academic integrity amid the rise of generative AI. He proposes a radical shift back to educational practices reminiscent of the medieval era, advocating for greater emphasis on oral instruction and in-person assessments over written assignments and take-home essays. This approach aims to combat the growing tendency among students to rely on AI tools for academic tasks.

The Challenge of AI in Academia

As students increasingly turn to AI for everything from essay writing to quick problem solving, educators find themselves at a crossroads. Shirky highlights that the educational landscape has changed dramatically, as students can now complete assignments with minimal personal effort, utilizing AI platforms to skip reading and writing.

Recognizing the shortcomings of existing measures to detect AI usage—often resulting in false positives—Shirky advocates for in-class evaluations that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in real-time. This method would emulate the teaching styles of the past, where oral examinations were the norm and students engaged directly with instructors, fostering a deeper understanding of the material.

Rethinking Student Assessment

Shirky urges institutions to consider a complete overhaul of current assessment methods. By shifting focus back to oral examinations and prompted discussions, educators may provoke more thoughtful engagement from students. He acknowledges, however, the logistical hurdles this presents, particularly as class sizes grow ever larger, and how an in-person performance can disproportionately advantage some students over others.

The shift toward classroom assessments could also necessitate a device-free learning environment, addressing how AI allows students to easily reference information during discussions. "We can't allow machines to diminish the learning experience," Shirky notes, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful educational approach that prepares students for real-world challenges.

Future Directions for Educational Practices

As we contemplate the implications of Shirky's suggestions, it's imperative for educational leaders to engage in an ongoing dialogue about how best to integrate technology in a way that enhances, rather than hinders, the learning process. The proposal for a medieval-like approach to education is not just about limiting AI's role but rather restoring the intrinsic value of learning through direct, immediate interaction with educators. This could also align with broader business trends emphasizing the importance of strong communication skills and critical thinking in the workforce.

In this rapidly evolving academic and professional landscape, the fusion of traditional teaching methods with tech-savvy approaches may well represent a balanced pathway toward re-establishing integrity and genuine learning experiences in higher education.