The recent case involving Kaustubh Shakkarwar, a postgraduate law student at O.P. Jindal Global University, has brought to the forefront a critical debate on using artificial intelligence (AI) in academic settings. Shakkarwar’s challenge against his exam failure, allegedly due to AI-generated content, raises significant questions about the ethical and procedural frameworks governing AI in education.
Shakkarwar, pursuing an LLM in intellectual property rights and technology law, was declared unsuccessful in an exam for allegedly using AI to generate his submissions. The university’s decision, now under scrutiny by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, highlights a gap in the procedural justice extended to students. Shakkarwar contends that he was not given a fair hearing and that the university failed to provide sufficient proof of AI usage. This situation underscores the need for clear, transparent policies and fair adjudication processes in academic institutions.
The integration of AI in education offers numerous benefits, including personalized learning experiences, efficient administrative processes, and enhanced research capabilities. However, it also presents challenges, particularly concerning academic integrity. The use of AI tools to generate exam responses or assignments can undermine the educational process, leading to unfair advantages and compromising the value of academic qualifications.
This case underscores the urgent need for academic institutions to establish clear guidelines regarding the use of AI. Universities must delineate what constitutes acceptable use of AI in academic work and ensure that students are well-informed about these policies. Moreover, there should be robust mechanisms to detect and address misuse, coupled with fair and transparent procedures for handling disputes.
As AI continues to evolve, educational institutions must strike a balance between embracing technological advancements and maintaining academic integrity. This involves not only setting clear policies but also fostering an environment where ethical considerations are integral to the use of technology. Educators and administrators must work collaboratively to develop frameworks that support innovation while upholding the principles of fairness and justice.