The launch of ChatGPT’s Study Mode has sparked a new debate on AI cheating in education

OpenAI’s Study Mode was launched on the 29th of July 2025. The new Study Mode aims to prevent students from using AI-enabled cheating through interactive, step by step guidance.

Some educators believe it is not enough to solve what they call the “existential danger” that threatens humanities.

What is ChatGPT’s Study Mode?

According to OpenAI’s official press releaseChatGPT is made more responsible by the Study Mode. It encourages deeper learning by asking guided questions, structuring materials into manageable sections and offering knowledge tests tailored to the student’s ability.

Robbie Torney Common Sense Media Study mode, which encourages students to critically evaluate their learning, was praised by those who attended the launch.

ChatGPT Edu is soon to be accessible by all registered users (Free Plus Pro Team). It was created in collaboration with educators, scientists, and pedagogy specialists to integrate metacognition principles, curiosity, self-reflection, and other learning techniques into AI.

Critics of ChatGPT

Despite its aims, critics point out that Study Mode is optional – students can toggle it off with a click and go back to answer-only mode.

This is a thought-provoking article in Vox ChatGPT can be a messy way to study. A university teaching assistant admits that AI-generated essays are now so common, enforcing “no AI” rules would mean accusing half the class – sometimes wrongly.

One student even said to their professor: “You want me to travel from A to B. Why wouldn’t you use a vehicle to get there?”

Shannon Vallor, a philosopher of technology, warned that eliminating “cognitive tension” with AI may weaken the intellectual muscles of students. “We need to do a lot cognitive exercise in order for us to develop and retain practical wisdom.”

Vox Instead of banning AI, it is suggested that universities allow its usage with requirements for reflection. Students could be asked to explain in writing the impact of using a chatbot on their thinking.

It is about encouraging practical wisdom and assisting students to develop the judgment to know when and where to use AI in a meaningful way.

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