Education Sector Faces Challenges with AI Use in Exams and Student Mental Health
New Zealand’s education system is confronting new challenges as artificial intelligence (AI) begins to impact exam integrity and student wellbeing. Education authorities are working to manage a rise in AI-related breaches during NCEA external assessments, alongside addressing increasing mental health concerns among students.
AI Breaches in Exams Raise Concerns
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) investigated 876 reported breaches in external assessments last year, confirming 738 of them. Authenticity issues were the most common, with 209 reported cases. For the first time, NZQA identified AI use as a breach type, signaling a new front in exam integrity.
Vaughan Couillault, president of the Secondary Principals’ Association, noted that some authenticity breaches likely involve AI. While it’s easier to spot when a student suddenly produces work that’s drastically different from their usual output, detecting AI use is more challenging. Students may rely on AI tools during exams, sometimes unnecessarily, to boost their grades.
Growing Demand for Distance Learning Linked to Mental Health
Since 2018, enrolments at Te Kura, the correspondence school, have grown by 32%, increasing from 21,000 to 31,000 students. This rise is partly attributed to more students facing mental health issues and social anxiety, seeking alternative education formats that better suit their needs.
Many students prefer distance learning, a trend amplified by the Covid pandemic. The shift has made online education more appealing, especially for years 9 to 13. Students eligible for Te Kura include those living overseas, referred for engagement and wellbeing reasons, pregnant or young parents, and elite athletes.
Government Response and Funding Priorities
Schools are closely watching Budget 2025, which includes a $140 million investment over four years aimed at improving school attendance. Most of this funding—$123 million—will establish a new attendance service based on recommendations from the 2024 Education Review Office (ERO) report. The remaining $17 million will enhance existing frontline attendance services.
- Addressing AI misuse in exams requires new detection methods and updated policies.
- Supporting students with mental health challenges involves flexible learning options like distance education.
- Improving attendance through targeted funding aims to boost engagement and wellbeing.
For education professionals looking to understand AI’s impact and ethical use in learning environments, exploring specialized AI training courses can be valuable. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest courses provide practical insights into AI tools and responsible implementation.
These developments highlight the need for schools and educators to adapt policies and support systems to maintain academic integrity and student wellbeing in a changing landscape.
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