Changes to JCQ guidance on AI in Assessment

We have reviewed our rules and guidance on AI use in assessments, first published in April 2023, and made updates to support students and teachers in completing internal assessments, coursework and non-exam assessments (NEA) successfully. These updates have been kept to a minimum.

The rapid expansion of AI tools means JCQ guidance should provide ongoing clarity on AI use rules and help inform policies for schools, colleges and other educational establishments.

JCQ awarding organisations value non-exam assessments (NEAs), coursework and other internal assessments within our qualifications. These offer students opportunities to demonstrate skills which cannot be assessed in exams. We know that schools, colleges, teachers and students really value these assessments. Responding appropriately to developments in AI means these assessments can remain a valuable way to assess students.

Teachers know their students best and, along with assessors, are best placed to identify whether work is a student’s own. Teachers and assessors in schools and colleges are key to ensuring only a student’s own work is accepted for assessment. Any concerns about authenticity must be carefully considered. Please read and share the new version of our rules and guidance.

Schools, colleges and other educational establishments must ensure students and staff have clear rules and guidance on AI use in assessments. To support leaders, teachers/assessors and students, we have produced a poster, information sheet and presentations for senior leaders and teachers. Here is some example text:

AI Use Support Documents

We have developed the following materials for teachers and students:

• Poster for Students – for use with students to help explain rules on AI use in assessments
• Information Sheet for Teachers – summarising guidance for teachers to understand and prevent AI misuse
• Senior Leader Presentation for Teachers – for senior leaders to use with their teaching colleagues
• Teacher Presentation for Students – for schools and colleges to use with students about the rules for AI use

Updates to Related JCQ Documents

The following documents support the JCQ AI Use in Assessments guidance:

• Instructions for Conducting Coursework
• Instructions for Conducting Non-Examination Assessments
• Information for candidates – coursework assessments
• Information for candidates – non examination assessments
• Suspected Malpractice Policies and Procedures
• Plagiarism in Assessments: Guidance for Teachers/Assessors

We hope schools, colleges and other educational establishments find the updated JCQ AI Use in Assessments rules and guidance useful.