Archive · 3 Jun 2025
US Colleges Revive Blue Books to Curb AI Cheating
Many US colleges are bringing back blue book exams to prevent students from cheating using AI tools like ChatGPT.
These blue books are handwritten tests, making it harder to use AI for answers.
Sales of blue books have gone up significantly at universities like Texas A&M and UC Berkeley.
Surveys show many students use AI for homework, raising concerns about academic honesty.
While some professors embrace the change, others question if it prepares students for the future.
The debate continues as AI becomes more prevalent.
US colleges are reintroducing blue book exams to combat AI-assisted cheating.
Blue book sales have surged at various universities.
Surveys reveal widespread student use of AI for assignments.
Many professors are concerned about the impact of AI on academic integrity.
The use of blue books is debated, with some questioning its long-term benefits.
- Who
- US colleges and students.
- What
- Colleges are using blue books to prevent AI cheating.
- When
- Recent years.
- Where
- US colleges and universities.
- Why
- To combat the use of AI tools for academic dishonesty.
Academic Integrity Supporters
Future Readiness Advocates
Impact on Future
Academic Integrity Supporters
Blue books safeguard academic honesty by preventing AI use and ensuring original student work.
Future Readiness Advocates
Restricting AI may not prepare students for professional environments where AI is common.
- Blue Book Sales Increase
- Sales up 30% at Texas A&M, 50% at University of Florida, and 80% at UC Berkeley
- Student AI Usage (Study.com Survey)
- 90% used ChatGPT for homework, 53% for essays, 48% during tests
- College Leader View on Cheating
- 59% believe cheating has increased with AI
- ChatGPT Users (as of April)
- 500 million weekly users
- Blue Book Cost
- 23 cents per book