Archive · 4 Sep 2026
University of Chicago Sets Analog Social Sciences Core
The University of Chicago is changing how some social science classes will work.
The changes begin in the 2026-27 academic year.
Students will usually attend class in person.
They will read paper texts and talk with classmates without laptops or phones.
Wearable devices that use artificial intelligence will also be restricted.
Students will not be allowed to use AI tools for their assignments.
Teachers will not be allowed to use AI to grade work.
Recording lectures and discussions will also be limited.
The university says the policy comes as schools consider how to use generative AI in teaching.
The University of Chicago will prohibit artificial intelligence tools in Social Sciences Core courses from 2026-27.
Students will generally attend classes in person and work with texts on paper.
Laptops, mobile phones and wearable AI devices will be restricted during classes.
Students must complete assignments independently, while instructors cannot use AI for grading.
Classroom recordings will be restricted, and course syllabi must be prepared by human scholars.
- Who
- The University of Chicago’s Social Sciences Collegiate Division, its students and instructors.
- What
- The university will prohibit AI tools and restrict personal technology in Social Sciences Core courses.
- When
- Beginning in the 2026-27 academic year.
- Where
- In the University of Chicago’s Social Sciences Core courses.
- Why
- The move comes as universities consider how to incorporate generative AI into teaching.
- Institution
- University of Chicago
- Program
- Social Sciences Core, also called SOSC
- Start date
- 2026-27 academic year
- Student technology
- Laptops, mobile phones and wearable AI devices will be restricted.
- AI use
- Students cannot use AI for assignments, and instructors cannot use AI for grading.
- Class format
- Students will generally attend in person, use paper texts and participate in discussions.
- Recording policy
- Recording classroom discussions and lectures will be restricted.