Is A.I. Changing the Way You Teach Writing? Tell Us.

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by Dana Goldstein

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Generative AI is reshaping how high school teachers and college professors approach writing assignments. With AI capable of producing essays that surpass the quality of many students' work, educators are grappling with how to assess authenticity and ensure originality. This has led to a reevaluation of traditional writing tasks, such as thesis-driven essays, which have been a staple of academic writing for decades. In response, educators are exploring alternative methods to evaluate student understanding. Some are requiring handwritten essays during class to make it harder for students to rely on AI tools. Others are shifting focus toward more personal and reflective writing assignments, emphasizing first-person narratives that may be harder for AI to mimic. Additionally, teachers are incorporating multimedia elements like oral presentations or video projects as alternatives to traditional written papers. This shift in teaching methods highlights the growing need for educators to adapt their approaches to keep pace with technological advancements. By experimenting with new assignment types and assessment strategies, teachers aim to maintain a meaningful connection between students' learning and their ability to express ideas authentically. The integration of diverse formats not only addresses concerns about AI-generated content but also fosters creativity and deeper engagement in the learning process. The evolving landscape of academic writing underscores the importance of innovation in education. As AI continues to influence the classroom, educators must remain flexible and open to exploring alternative ways to assess student work. This ongoing challenge presents an opportunity for teachers to rethink traditional practices and explore innovative approaches that better align with modern teaching goals.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026