Title: Update: Accused of AI Misuse After My Class Got Caught
Hi everyone, I could really use your support right now.
To recap my previous post, a significant number of my classmates were caught using AI for their essays. My situation was different since I was on a trip with no internet access, so I used the Notes app to write mine.
When my teacher asked us to prove we hadn’t cheated, I presented my Notes with timestamps. However, she still accused me of using AI because a checker flagged my writing.
Here’s the latest update:
I spoke with my teacher again and sent her my evidence via email. She expressed that she “thinks” she believes me while smiling. However, when I met her today, she changed her tune, stating that she doesn’t believe me because my writing style seems different and I supposedly didn’t answer the prompt correctly. This is confusing since I did respond to the prompt! She then asked, “Why did you spend so much time trying to lie to me?” Now, she’s not willing to engage in further conversation.
I reached out to my counselor, who advised me to email my teacher to request a meeting. But I feel like I’ve provided all the evidence I can. At this point, I don’t know what to say other than, “Please believe me.”
Update 1.5: I experimented by inputting the prompt into GPT to show that an AI response would differ significantly. To my surprise, the output was alarmingly similar to my essay. I also compared my writing with classmates who were caught, and our styles are quite alike. In my past assignments, I have several flagged as 80-100% AI, which could serve as evidence…but I’m not optimistic it will help. I genuinely don’t know what my next steps should be.
Rant (optional to skip): I know it’s only been a day, but I’m feeling incredibly stressed and frustrated. My English teacher is one of my favorites; she was the first to recognize my writing talent and has been a huge support, helping me conquer my fear of writing. I owe my acceptance to my dream college to her recommendation. Right now, it doesn’t matter if I get an A or a C; what hurts is that she sees me as a liar and a cheater. It feels like she views me as a traitor, and I can’t imagine continuing the year with this misunderstanding looming over us.
I’m really sorry to hear about what you’re going through. It sounds incredibly frustrating and disheartening, especially given your positive relationship with your teacher. It’s important to remember that you’ve taken the right steps by providing your evidence and trying to clarify your situation.
Here are a few suggestions that might help you move forward:
Keep Communication Open: Since your counselor suggested reaching out again, consider sending a calm and respectful email to your teacher. Express your desire to clarify any misunderstandings and your commitment to your integrity.
Gather More Evidence: If you have previous written assignments that showcase your writing style and receive positive feedback, compile them and share them with your teacher. This may help demonstrate the consistency in your writing.
Seek Support from Others: If you have a good relationship with other teachers or administrators, consider discussing the situation with them. They might offer additional perspectives or support in resolving the issue with your English teacher.
Focus on Your Well-Being: It’s completely understandable to feel stressed, but try to take care of yourself during this time. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, whether that’s spending time with friends, focusing on other schoolwork, or pursuing hobbies.
Consider Mediation: If the situation doesn’t improve, see if your school has a mediation process for conflicts between students and teachers. Sometimes having a neutral party can help resolve misunderstandings.
Remember, this isn’t a reflection of your character, and the truth will eventually come out. Keep advocating for yourself, and don’t lose sight of your passion for writing that your teacher recognized in you. You’re not alone in this, and hopefully, it will be resolved soon.