Artificial intelligence as a threat and a tool for supporting academic integrity in higher education

Abstract

The article aims to provide a detailed analysis of the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies on academic integrity in higher education, with a particular focus on identifying both threats and opportunities that can contribute to compliance with ethical standards. Methods. The study employs a combination of theoretical and empirical methods, including an in-depth analysis of the scientific literature, a synthesis of the collected data, the identification of key aspects, and an examination of the practical application of AI in educational institutions. Results. It has been established that AI technologies can pose significant threats to academic integrity. Among the primary risks are plagiarism, grade falsification, and test manipulation. In addition, the negative consequences associated with the bias of assessment algorithms, which can lead to discrimination against certain student groups, as well as threats to the confidentiality of participants’ data in the educational process, are discussed. However, it is worth noting that AI technologies also have the potential to support academic integrity. For example, plagiarism detection systems such as Turnitin can significantly reduce the risk of unethical use of other people’s ideas. Adaptive platforms, such as Knewton, provide personalized learning materials that promote the development of critical thinking in students. Automated assessment systems can analyze student reasoning, and monitoring technologies (such as ProctorU) help detect suspicious actions during exams, thereby reducing the likelihood of cheating. The article also presents several recommendations for educational institutions to integrate AI into their educational processes. These include the implementation of adaptive assessment systems and the use of platforms to develop ethical thinking through the use of ethical dilemma scenarios. AI-based analytical tools can detect cheating trends and anomalies in student behavior, enabling timely action. Additionally, blockchain technologies can ensure the security of data related to student achievement. Conclusions. In summary, it can be argued that the integration of AI technologies into the educational process has the potential to enhance academic integrity, uphold ethical standards, and prevent fraud in educational institutions, thereby allowing us to recommend their implementation for creating a more transparent and fair educational system.