AI-Linked Breaches Fuel Rise in NCEA Exam Misconduct

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has reported a rise in NCEA exam misconduct breaches, with AI-linked breaches contributing to the increase. Authenticity was the most common breach type, with 209 reported cases, and 59 investigations related to AI. NZQA's deputy chief executive of assessment Jann Marshall emphasized the need for students to use AI tools appropriately and not replicate or transfer information into assessments. Secondary Principals' Association president Vaughan Couillault attributed some authenticity breaches to AI and acknowledged the challenges it brings to assessments.

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has reported a significant increase in NCEA exam misconduct breaches, with AI-linked incidents contributing to the rise. According to NZQA, 876 investigations were launched last year, with 59 specifically related to AI use [1]. Authenticity was the most common breach type, accounting for 209 reported cases [1]. The total number of breaches is a 250% increase from the 2019 total of 345 [1].

NZQA's deputy chief executive of assessment, Jann Marshall, emphasized the importance of students using AI tools appropriately. She noted that while AI can be beneficial for brainstorming, it should not be used to replicate or transfer information directly into assessments [1]. Marshall also highlighted the need for continuous guidance and collaboration with the Ministry of Education to keep up with evolving technology [1].

Vaughan Couillault, president of the Secondary Principals' Association, attributed some authenticity breaches to AI use and acknowledged the challenges it presents to assessments. He stated that the increase in breaches is likely due to the growing use of tools like ChatGPT and similar AI technologies [1].

The rise in breaches also coincides with an increase in the number of assessments since the COVID-19 pandemic. Couillault noted that the introduction of new digital assessments has contributed to the overall increase in breaches [1]. NZQA investigated 216 breaches stemming from literacy and numeracy standards, with the remaining 660 from other external assessments [1].

Out of the 876 breaches investigated, 418 resulted in action being taken, including warning letters and withholding of results [1]. Couillault expressed his disappointment with the number of students breaching assessment rules but recognized the need for a balanced approach to maintain the integrity of qualifications [1].

References:
[1] https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/ai-linked-breaches-contribute-to-ncea-exam-misconduct-rise/K3GNDSTPGVDJTKG2SPTYNZXXNE/