Students Risk Total Marks for AI Copying in Leaving Cert Coursework

UPDATE: Students could lose all marks in their Leaving Cert coursework if they copy or paraphrase material generated by artificial intelligence (AI), new guidelines reveal. The State Examinations Commission (SEC) has issued these urgent rules ahead of the 2026 State Examinations, emphasizing strict policies to combat academic dishonesty.

This new directive comes as AI technology rapidly evolves, leading to increased scrutiny on coursework authenticity. The SEC states, “Any material generated by AI software will be treated in the same way as any other material that the candidate has not generated themselves.” Failing to properly quote AI-generated content will be considered plagiarism, which could result in the forfeiture of all marks for that component.

Why This Matters NOW: Coursework is a significant portion of students’ final grades, making these guidelines critical for the future of academic integrity. Teachers and principals are now required to report any coursework they cannot authenticate as a student’s own, ensuring closer monitoring of student progress.

According to the SEC, coursework can include written projects, portfolios, and various tasks, all of which will be scrutinized under the new regulations. Teachers must supervise students to ensure their work is original. This oversight is essential as the SEC aims to maintain high standards amid the growing influence of AI tools in education.

The guidelines detail acceptable uses of AI, including brainstorming project ideas with tools like ChatGPT-4, provided students document this use. However, any AI-generated material that is not properly referenced will not receive credit. “Credit can only be awarded for the effective use of this material in the support or development of the candidate’s own work,” the SEC clarifies.

Students must also engage with their teachers before utilizing AI for coursework. Failure to submit authentic work constitutes a breach of examination regulations and could lead to severe penalties, including the loss of marks or even the entire subject. The SEC warns, “There are serious consequences for candidates whose coursework cannot be authenticated.”

This significant shift in academic policy underscores the SEC’s commitment to combating plagiarism and maintaining educational integrity in an era where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent. As these changes roll out, students must be vigilant and proactive in understanding the implications for their academic careers.

What’s Next: Students and educators alike should prepare for these changes and ensure they are familiar with the new guidelines. The SEC’s commitment to maintaining standards in the face of technological advancement is clear, and students are urged to take these warnings seriously as they approach their coursework.

As the education landscape continues to evolve, staying informed on these developments is crucial for students aiming for success in their studies. Share this urgent update to keep fellow students aware of these critical changes!