Pupils given green light to use AI software in writing essays

PUPILS studying for an International Baccalaureate have been told they can submit essays with paragraphs written by artificial intelligence chatbots.

It means they will be able to use ChatGPT which can answer questions in a human-like manner and compose essays if asked. Matt Glanville of IB said the software should not be seen ‘as a threat’.

‘Like spellcheckers, translation software and calculators, we must accept that it is going to become part of our everyday lives,’ he told The Times.

‘The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet.

‘As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.’

Geoff Barton, of the Association of School and College Leaders, said allowing the platform with the correct attribution seemed sensible and in line with the use of information sources.