Coursera Launches AI Tools to Strengthen Academic Integrity

Coursera, a global online learning platform, has launched a suite of innovative Academic Integrity features aimed at preserving the credibility of online education in the face of increasing AI-assisted academic misconduct. These cutting-edge tools, designed to enhance the verification and authenticity of student learning, are now available on the Coursera for Campus platform and are currently being piloted with select institutions.

In response to growing concerns about online cheating, Coursera’s new suite includes several GenAI-powered features such as AI-Assisted Grading, Proctoring and Lockdown Browser, and AI-based Viva Exams. These tools are engineered to strengthen the integrity of assessments, courses, and certifications by addressing the challenges posed by AI-driven cheating. With studies indicating that 1 in 6 university students engage in online exam cheating, the introduction of these features is timely and crucial for maintaining high educational standards.

Jeff Maggioncalda, CEO of Coursera, highlighted the dual role of Generative AI in this context. “Online learning has become a powerful tool for institutions to better prepare students for a rapidly changing world. However, universities must ensure it meets the rigorous standards required for academic credit. While Generative AI introduces new risks for student misconduct, it also provides unprecedented opportunities for universities to enhance academic integrity at scale.”

Key Features of Coursera’s New Academic Integrity Tools

1. AI-Assisted Grading: This tool helps streamline grading by suggesting scores and feedback based on thorough assignment analysis, while final grading decisions remain with educators.

2. Proctoring and Lockdown Browser: Designed to maintain exam integrity, these features block unauthorized resources and detect any form of cheating during high-stakes exams.

3. AI Assessment Generator: This feature simplifies the creation of diverse and unpredictable assessments, integrating them seamlessly into course assignments.

4. Question Banks and Variants: Provides a range of question types and multiple variants to ensure robust testing and minimize predictability.

5. Graded Item Locking: Requires students to complete each lesson before unlocking graded items, encouraging comprehensive learning.

6. Time and Attempt Limits: Controls the number of exam attempts and time limits to prevent trial-and-error cheating strategies.

7. Plagiarism Detection: Identifies similarities to previous submissions, deterring plagiarism and promoting original work.

8. Coursera Coach: Offers personalized tutoring with interactive learning assistance, lecture summaries, and tailored practice.

9. AI-Based Viva Exams: Tests students’ critical thinking through written submissions, allowing educators to evaluate work in detail.

10. Enhanced Peer Feedback: Uses AI to provide insights and generate grades based on assignment rubrics.

Coursera’s new features aim to create a more secure and reliable online learning environment, ensuring that academic achievements are genuine and well-earned.