AI News Monitor

As artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT become ubiquitous in classrooms, educators are increasingly turning to a low-tech solution to preserve academic integrity: handwritten exams.

The resurgence of pen-and-paper testing—including the use of traditional blue books—reflects a growing struggle to prevent students from using AI to generate essays, solve problems, or even complete take-home exams. According to The Wall Street Journal, universities such as Texas A&M, the University of Florida, and UC Berkeley have reported a surge in demand for handwritten assessments over the past two years.

“If students have to write their answers by hand in class, there’s no opportunity to outsource their thinking to AI,” said one professor, who asked not to be named due to ongoing debates over academic policy.

Recent surveys suggest that as many as 89% of students have used AI tools for coursework, ranging from brainstorming to drafting entire assignments. While plagiarism-detection software like Turnitin has rolled out AI-writing checkers, educators say these tools are imperfect, and some institutions have abandoned them over accuracy and privacy concerns.

Critics argue that reverting to in-person exams may limit opportunities for deeper research and revision. Some schools are instead advocating for AI literacy programs, teaching students to use these tools ethically.

“AI isn’t going away,” said a university dean quoted in The Wall Street Journal. “Our job is to prepare students to think critically—even when technology offers shortcuts.”

As the debate continues, some educators are experimenting with alternatives, such as oral exams or process-based assignments. But for now, the humble blue book is making an unexpected comeback in the age of artificial intelligence.