A Brown University professor ordered an in-person final after suspecting widespread AI cheating, and student scores reportedly fell by about half. The case has become part of a broader dispute over how universities should respond to generative AI use.
The incident highlights the difficulty of separating legitimate AI assistance from academic misconduct. Schools are still struggling to update assessment design, disclosure rules, and enforcement practices.
As AI tools become normal study aids, universities may need to rethink exams and coursework rather than relying only on detection or bans.