Maker of ChatGPT launches tool to curb cheating with AI

Its detection system should not be used on its own, according to OpenAI. Educators should use it with caution as it's still an imperfect tool.

After weeks of concern surrounding ChatGPT, an artificially intelligent chatbot that can do pretty much anything aside from doing your laundry, its creator finally launched a tool on Tuesday that can detect whether a body of work was generated by AI.

The AI Text Classifier is a free and “fine-tuned” tool that has been trained to “distinguish between text written by a human and text written by AIs from a variety of providers,” according to OpenAI’s announcement. However, it is not 100% accurate, according to the company. They recommend that the classifier not be the sole indicator of plagiarism, but instead “as a complement to other methods of determining the source of a piece of text.”

In addition, there are several limitations to the tool:

  • The body of text must have at least 1,000 characters (around 150-250 words)
  • It’s imperfect; it can mislabel human-written and AI-written text
  • Students can edit the AI-generated text after its generated to make it seem real
  • It’s likely to score things incorrectly if written by children or in any language other than English

With this in mind, let’s take the classifier for a spin. We asked ChatGPT to whip up a brief 175-word argumentative essay on why pizza is better with ranch (that’s right… it’s a controversial topic).

Here’s what it said:

Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most popular and beloved foods in the world. But have you ever considered the impact that a simple condiment can have on this classic dish? Ranch dressing is the answer. When it comes to elevating the flavor and experience of pizza, ranch is the key ingredient that takes it to the next level.

Firstly, ranch dressing provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the savory and sometimes spicy flavors of pizza toppings. The combination of rich, creamy ranch with the bold and spicy flavors of pizza creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is simply irresistible. Secondly, ranch acts as a cooling agent for the mouth, providing relief from the heat of the pizza, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Furthermore, ranch has a mild flavor that complements almost any type of pizza, making it a versatile condiment choice. Whether you prefer a classic margherita or a meat-lover’s pizza, ranch will enhance the flavors without overpowering them. Additionally, it is a great dip for pizza crust, adding extra flavor and texture to every bite.

In conclusion, pizza is undeniably better with ranch, making it a staple condiment in every pizza lover’s kitchen. So next time you enjoy a slice of pizza, don’t forget to add a generous drizzle of ranch dressing. You won’t regret it!

After running it through the detector without making any edits to the original piece, it said, “The classifier considers the text to be unclear if it is AI-generated.”

So if you are one of the few schools using ChatGPT in the classroom with students, adhere to OpenAI’s recommendation. There’s no such thing as a perfect AI detection system, so consider implementing a multi-step verification system to fairly and adequately assess students’ work.


More from DA: A war on ChatGPT is raging. But some K12 leaders are making peace with AI


Micah Ward
Micah Wardhttps://districtadministration.com
Micah Ward is a District Administration staff writer. He recently earned his master’s degree in Journalism at the University of Alabama. He spent his time during graduate school working on his master’s thesis. He’s also a self-taught guitarist who loves playing folk-style music.

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