The AI Cheating Craze Brings Back the Blue Exam Book

Amidst the rise of AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, a surprising trend has emerged on college campuses across the United States: the return of the humble blue exam book. This unexpected resurgence is not a nostalgic throwback but a practical response to the increasing prevalence of AI-assisted cheating. At Texas A&M University, sales of blue books have soared by more than 30% this year. Similarly, the University of Florida has witnessed a nearly 50% increase. At UC Berkeley, the increase is even more dramatic, with sales up 80% over the past two school years. "The AI boom has been surprisingly good for a paper company in Pennsylvania," notes Ben Cohen, the WSJ columnist featured in the video. This unexpected benefit for the paper industry underscores the challenges posed by AI-driven academic dishonesty. While the convenience and capabilities of AI tools like ChatGPT are undeniable, the need for proctored exams and traditional methods of assessment has become more critical than ever before. The trend highlights the ongoing adaptation and evolution of educational practices in the face of technological advancements.