AI Cheating Drives Return of Blue Books in US Schools

Artificial intelligence has revolutionized many sectors, but in education, its impact has been double-edged. The rise of AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, capable of generating essays and answering complex questions instantly, has led to a surge in academic dishonesty across American high schools and universities.

In response, educators are revisiting traditional methods to combat cheating. One notable trend is the resurgence of blue books—simple pen-and-paper booklets used for in-class essay exams. Sales of these booklets have skyrocketed, with universities like Texas A&M, University of Florida, and UC Berkeley reporting increases of 30%, 50%, and 80% respectively since late 2022.

The blue book’s comeback is ironic, transforming from a once-dreaded relic of pre-digital education into a frontline defense against AI-enabled cheating. These booklets force students to think and write in real-time, limiting the ability to outsource their work to AI.

However, this approach is not a panacea. Experts like Philip D. Bunn argue that traditional essays, often written outside class, assess deeper intellectual skills that timed, in-class blue book essays cannot fully replicate. The educational value of research-based and analytical writing risks being diminished if schools rely solely on blue books.

Moreover, AI detection tools frequently fail, and surveys reveal that nearly 9 out of 10 college students admit to using AI like ChatGPT for assignments. This widespread acceptance of AI-assisted cheating suggests that more comprehensive solutions, including new policies and regulations, are urgently needed.

The challenge facing educators is complex: how to preserve academic integrity and intellectual rigor in an era where AI can mimic human thought and writing with alarming ease. The blue book’s revival is a clever stopgap, but the future demands innovative strategies that balance technology’s benefits with safeguards against misuse.

In the end, the rise of AI cheating is a wake-up call for the education system. It challenges us to rethink assessment methods, invest in better detection technologies, and cultivate a culture that values genuine learning over shortcuts. The blue book’s return is just the beginning of this crucial conversation.