Students use AI for essays

Jameel Kiburi, a senior engineering major, says he now struggles to write essays without ChatGPT.

“I've definitely become more reliant on it”

AI cheating rises

Six of Maryland's 12 public colleges reported more AI honor code violations in 2025-26 than 2023-24.

Honor code violations underreported

Dorothy Leidner, an AI ethics professor, says cheating with AI is now a 'way of life' for students.

“It's more than just a temptation now for students, it's a way of life”

University of Maryland cheating

AI violations at University of Maryland College Park increased from 120 to 208 in 2023-24 to 2025-26.

AI guidelines at colleges

Maryland universities share guidelines for using AI in classrooms with disclosure and attribution requirements.

Professors adapt to AI

Siv Lie, an ethnomusicology professor, redesigned assignments to reduce AI cheating opportunities.

“I try to make assignments that are really based on stuff we've only talked about in class”

Students use AI for learning

Laurencia Aparin says her information science classes use AI frequently for assignments and study.

“I feel like it depends on the major”

AI environmental concerns

Aparin worries AI causes more harm and reduces critical thinking.

“It's causing more harm for people, and making people think less”

No students disciplined

None of the interviewed students knew anyone disciplined for AI cheating.

Professors get stricter

Kiburi says professors are getting stricter but students find workarounds for AI use.

“Most professors were lenient in the beginning, but now they're getting stricter with it”

What happens next

Universities will continue balancing AI use with academic integrity as cheating rates rise.