As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, Chinese universities are taking decisive steps to regulate its use in academic writing. With AI tools like DeepSeek becoming increasingly accessible, an overreliance on these technologies is raising concerns about academic integrity.
A recent survey by MyCOS, encompassing over 3,000 university faculty and students, revealed that nearly 60 percent of respondents use generative AI daily or multiple times a week. Among students, approximately 30 percent rely primarily on AI for writing papers or assignments, with some even directly copying and pasting AI-generated content.
University professors and experts reported to China Media Group (CMG) that the misuse of AI extends beyond generating text. Instances of academic misconduct now include falsifying research data, editing experimental images, and replacing independent design work with AI-generated content.
In response to these challenges, many Chinese universities have introduced stringent regulations outlining the permissible and prohibited uses of AI tools. For example, Fudan University has issued guidelines banning AI use in research design, data collection, image creation, thesis writing, and handling confidential content. Violations of these guidelines could result in failing grades and impact degree eligibility.
Tianjin University of Science and Technology implemented AI-generated content detection in undergraduate theses last year, setting a maximum AI content threshold of 40 percent. This policy is set to continue for graduates in 2025, aiming to curb excessive dependence on AI.
Beyond institutional measures, multiple research teams in China are developing advanced AI detection technologies to combat academic fraud. As AI technology evolves, these anti-detection methods must also advance to maintain their effectiveness.
Experts emphasize that technological solutions alone are not enough. There is a growing need for better academic evaluation methods and improved AI literacy among students. Huang Yating, a researcher at Zhejiang University's School of Education, suggests that assessment methods should prioritize higher-order thinking skills. \"AI can replace repetitive and standardized tasks,\" Huang said. \"Professors should design assignments that AI cannot easily replicate and encourage collaboration with AI rather than full reliance on it.\"
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Chinese universities seek to regulate AI use in academic writing
cgtn.com
