I was devastated when I received a zero for a 400-word assignment in one of my classes at the University of Houston Downtown. The reason? An AI detection tool had flagged my work as being entirely generated by artificial intelligence. When I tried to discuss with my professor, hoping to prove that the assignment was my genuine effort, I was met with a disappointing response. The professor insisted that the only option was to report it as an Academic Honesty violation on my official student record and appeal.

Unfortunately, I am not alone (especially with my specific professor). Many students across the campus face similar challenges with the reliance on AI detection tools to grade assignments without an opportunity for dialogue or clarification. This system not only undermines the hard work we put into our studies but also places undue stress and anxiety on students striving to maintain their academic integrity and reputation. It also goes against the suggested method of use for TurnItIn's own AI detection tool.

These tools creators report only 1% false positive/negative rates (far lower than they have been proven to output by third party research), are biased against neurodivergent students (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc…) and students for whom English is a second language and create an environment of distrust where students are treated as suspicious by default. 

The current policy at UH-Downtown lacks an essential component: mandated communication to determine student engagement. We propose a change that requires professors and staff to engage with students prior to taking drastic measures based on AI detection results or subjective experience. A conversation regarding the assignment topic and content should be mandatory before deciding on academic penalties. By doing so, we aim to protect students from unjust repercussions stemming from technology that is not infallible. Moreover, creating these steps ensures transparency and fairness in academic evaluation. We urge the University of Houston Downtown administration to revisit and adjust this policy, fostering an environment where students' voices are heard and respected.

Please join us in petitioning for these necessary changes to support a fairer academic evaluation system at our university. Sign this petition to make a difference in the lives of many students who just want their work to be assessed accurately and fairly. Together, we can push for accountability and fairness in academia. Sign to support justice for all students at UH-Downtown!