Many students who rely on AI in their coursework are not trying to cheat—they are trying to cope with gaps in preparation, fear of failure, and a lack of confidence in their own voices, argues Ernesto Reyes (Fresno City College). In conversations with students, Reyes found that those misusing AI for assignments often lacked writing instruction in earlier schooling and came from communities that have been historically underrepresented in higher education. He thus encourages educators to meet AI use with empathy rather than punishment, recognizing the systemic issues that may push students toward unethical use in the first place.
Inside Higher Ed
