AI Detector: How to Discuss AI with Students.


Have an Honest Conversation with Students About AI Use.

Let’s cut to the chase: AI is here. Students are using it—sometimes to learn, sometimes to cheat. And whether we like it or not, the genie isn’t going back in the bottle. So, it’s time we stop dancing around the issue and start having real conversations with our students about what AI is, how it can help them, and what happens when it’s used dishonestly.

Try out the AI Detector by STEM Forged to help gain insight into student AI use.


Start With Clarity, Not Accusation

Most students aren’t trying to “get away” with something—they’re trying to survive. They’re overwhelmed, under-supported, and being told to use AI tools for one thing and punished for another. So let’s be clear.

When you talk to students about AI use, define the expectations upfront:

  • What’s considered appropriate use (e.g., brainstorming, grammar checks)?
  • What’s not (e.g., copying full essays, submitting AI-generated work as their own)?
  • Why it matters (academic integrity, learning loss, skill development)?

Put this in your syllabus. Talk about it during class. And revisit it often.


Assume Curiosity Over Malice (At Least at First)

If you suspect AI use—or if your AI Detector flags something—approach the conversation like an educator, not a prosecutor. You’re not just trying to catch a cheater; you’re trying to guide a learner.

Start with:

  • “Tell me how you approached this assignment.”
  • “What tools did you use?”
  • “Can you walk me through your writing process?”

You’ll learn a lot from how a student responds. If they’re stumbling to explain basic concepts in their own work, that’s a red flag. But it’s also an opportunity to teach.


When They’re Caught—Stay Human

Yes, there should be consequences. But they should be educational, not purely punitive.

Try this tiered approach:

  • First offense: Document it. Have a conversation. Offer a chance to redo the work with clear expectations.
  • Second offense: Involve parents or guardians. Provide a written warning. Possibly reduce credit but still allow resubmission.
  • Repeat offenses or blatant dishonesty: Follow school or district policy on academic integrity—but make sure it’s up-to-date for the AI era.


Teach AI Literacy

If we want students to act responsibly with AI, we have to teach them how. That means showing them:

  • How to use AI ethically and productively.
  • How to critically evaluate AI outputs.
  • How to distinguish between support and substitution.

You wouldn’t hand a student a calculator without first teaching them math. AI should be no different.


Use AI Detectors Responsibly

AI detectors are tools, not verdicts. No detector is perfect, and false positives happen. Always pair results with conversations and context. The goal isn’t just to “catch” misuse—it’s to understand it and address it constructively.


Be Honest, Be Clear, Be Consistent

This isn’t about being the AI police. It’s about guiding students through a rapidly changing world with clarity, fairness, and accountability.


Try out the AI Detector by STEM Forged to help gain insight into student AI use.