ChatGPT Introduces "Study Mode" to Promote Academic Integrity
A new feature called "study mode" is being rolled out for ChatGPT to encourage proper use of the chatbot in educational settings, as concerns grow over the misuse of AI tools in universities.
The function, available in the chatbot’s tools section, guides users through complicated topics in a structured manner, similar to a lesson. For instance, when asked to explain Bayes’ theorem—a mathematical rule—ChatGPT first inquires about the user's familiarity with math and their learning objectives.
The update arrives as academic institutions struggle with AI-related misconduct. A CuriosityNews investigation on integrity violations in the UK identified nearly 7,000 confirmed cases of cheating involving AI in the 2023-24 academic year, or 5.1 per 1,000 students—up from 1.6 per 1,000 the previous year.
OpenAI reports that over a third of college-aged users in the US utilize ChatGPT, with roughly a quarter of interactions related to learning and coursework.
Unlike providing direct answers, study mode encourages comprehension rather than shortcuts. OpenAI states it ensures students “don’t just receive solutions without understanding them.” However, users can bypass this feature if they choose.
Jayna Devani, an education specialist at OpenAI, emphasized that the tool aims to promote constructive learning rather than misuse. “This is about demonstrating responsible ways to use ChatGPT for education—not as a replacement for learning. We oppose misuse, and this is a move in the right direction,” she said.
She noted that addressing academic dishonesty will require broader discussions on rethinking assessments and establishing clear rules around AI usage.
The feature, labeled "study and learn" in ChatGPT’s tools, is intended for homework support, test preparation, and exploring new subjects. According to Devani, it guides users toward answers step by step instead of providing immediate solutions.
Additionally, it supports interactions with images, allowing students to analyze past exam papers uploaded to the chatbot.
OpenAI collaborated with educators and researchers to refine the tool but cautioned that responses may occasionally vary or contain errors.
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