Blue books to the rescue | WORLD
There was something different about this year’s college graduates. Not only were they the first to start college post-COVID, they were the last to be freshmen without the help of artificial intelligence. By the time Open AI launched ChatGPT in 2022, U.S. college students were well into their sophomore year. They quickly adopted the tool for daily tasks like opening their phones, curating their social media, and spell-checking their messages. But a high number also found it helpful for cheating their way to a better grade. Three years into this experiment with large language learning models, college professors are starting to push back. This should be of no little interest to incoming freshmen.
The Revival of Blue Books
In “The Old School Way to Beat ChatGPT,” Wall Street Journal reporter Ben Cohen writes about the resurgence of an analog technology that can thwart cheating with AI. That technology: the paper blue book. Several pages of college ruled paper stapled between two light blue covers. The only thing necessary on the day of “blue books” was a pencil or a pen for those confident in their knowledge. In response to open-ended questions, students were expected to write a logical answer in paragraph form, “just as if they were writing an essay outside of class.”
Debate on AI Usage
Blue book sales waned in 2020 when schools were testing remotely, but they’re rising now, says Cohen, “because of AI cheating.” Professors are conflicted about the use of AI for cheating. While some believe students should embrace AI to enhance their knowledge, others argue that it fosters dependency and hinders true learning. The debate continues on whether the use of AI tools in college provides a real advantage in future workplaces.
The Importance of Traditional Learning
Despite the convenience of AI, traditional learning methods such as preparing for essay exams with blue books offer unique benefits. Professors who utilize blue books aim to cultivate a culture of learning that goes beyond test results. By requiring students to demonstrate their knowledge through handwritten essays, educators emphasize the value of genuine understanding over shortcuts provided by technology.
Celebrating Learning
Preparing for exams with blue books may not always be enjoyable, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of acquiring knowledge through dedication and effort. By removing AI from the exam-taking process, students are encouraged to engage with course material on a deeper level and develop critical thinking skills that are essential for their future success.
