Massey ditches AI detection, Turnitin
From today, Massey is turning off AI detection software Turnitin on Stream, following student reports of false accusations.
The tool was originally introduced to help lecturers identify if students were using AI in their assignments. However, the system quickly proved unreliable, with many students reporting they had been falsely accused of using AI.
The announcement came in Massey’s August newsletter: “Our university supports the ethical and responsible use of AI, and we want to help our students develop real-world skills … We need to continue to build a culture that values assessment as learning and avoids unnecessary surveillance.”
The change follows the pattern of universities around the world. It’s part of Massey’s AI Use Framework announced earlier this year, aiming to acknowledge AI’s place in education.
The newsletter stressed that the change does not mean it’s acceptable for AI to do students’ work, and that academic integrity remains essential.
“We will ensure that your qualification remains trusted and respected by including secured assessments at key points in every qualification.”
When Massive asked students on the Massey@Distance Facebook page for their views, many welcomed the move.
Some argued the tool unfairly penalised students who used AI as a learning aid.
Leo Scouller said, “AI detection was unfairly disadvantaging students, particularly neurodivergent students and leading to massive headaches where there shouldn’t have been any. It was not the correct solution to AI policing at all.”
An anonymous student added: “Many people have been accused including myself, and it creates very bad anxiety.”
Students said they use AI as a tool to provide feedback before submitting work, explaining difficult concepts, or brainstorming ideas.
Brilie Hoani wrote, “I use it to mark my paper before I turn it in to make sure I haven’t missed anything and give me an estimated grade. I don’t see that as cheating, it’s resourceful.”
However, some students were worried the change could encourage misuse.
An anonymous commenter said, “I want to know what’s to stop a student from using AI to complete their entire degree? I think this is putting the validity of my degree at risk.”
Distance disability student rep Alhanis Jacobsen responded to these concerns, saying the university is exploring better ways to ensure secure assessments. This includes rethinking how assignments are designed and the conditions under which students complete them.
“This decision simply removes the AI-led AI detection tool that was providing inconsistent results and causing harm to students, their relationships with staff, and in turn, their relationship with the university,” Jacobsen said.
Jacobsen said late last year, Te Tira Ahu Pae submitted a report of concern to Massey after several failures by Turnitin’s AI detection.
While some students remained cautious, the overall response was positive, with many supporting AI as a tool — but not as a shortcut to cheating.