Assessment Integrity in NZ Schools - The AI Shift from Policing to Partnering
AI isn't going anywhere. For NZ schools, the focus isn't just on "stopping" AI, but on maintaining credible NCEA assessments in a world where AI is a powerful tool.
Know the Rules: What's Expected?
Every NZ school must navigate AI use. Here are the core expectations:
Academic Policy:
Know your school’s specific policy on AI use for assessments.
This policy should clearly state if AI is allowed, scaffolded, or prohibited for different tasks.
The "Student's Own Work" Rule:
NCEA evidence must be the student's independent work.
AI can be a brainstorming tool, but the final output must reflect the student's knowledge and skills.
Acknowledge AI Use:
Students must reference AI if they use it for any part of their work (e.g., ChatGPT for ideas, Gemini for explanations).
Failing to acknowledge AI is considered a breach of authenticity.
Teacher Toolkit: Smart Strategies for Authenticity
Design assessments and manage workflows to promote genuine student learning:
Baseline Assessments:
Conduct early, in-class tasks (pen & paper or locked devices) to establish a student’s "voice" and skill level.
Process Over Product:
Use checkpoints and milestones (e.g., plans, drafts, reflections) to track student thinking and progress.
Ask students to explain their choices in a process log.
"AI-Resistant" Assessment Design:
Contextualise: Link tasks to specific class discussions, local events, or personal experiences that AI won't know.
Orals/Discussion: Briefly chat with students about their work to gauge their understanding if you have concerns.
Leverage AI for Learning: Teach students to use AI ethically as a learning partner for idea generation, editing, or summarising, not as a replacement for their own effort.
Key Concerns & Considerations
Stay informed about the evolving landscape:
AI Detectors are Flawed:
Do not rely solely on AI detectors. They are not 100% accurate and can produce false positives, especially for ESL students.
NZQA advises against using them as definitive proof of AI use.
The Equity Gap:
Be aware that access to premium AI tools can create disparities in the quality of support students receive outside of school.
Authenticity is a Conversation:
It's about teaching academic integrity, critical thinking, and responsible tool use, not just catching "cheaters."
At TAKE we embrace AI as an opportunity to rethink assessment. By focusing on process, critical thinking, and transparent use, we believe it’s possible to empower students to thrive responsibly with AI.