Mark McLauchlin, a nursing student at Murdoch University in Perth, is contesting allegations that he used artificial intelligence in his assignment, a situation he claims has severely challenged his integrity. The issue arose after he submitted a workbook, leading to an investigation by the university that concluded with a significant reduction in his marks.
On April 3, 2025, McLauchlin received an email from the university indicating that concerns had been raised regarding the authenticity of his work. The university’s analysis suggested that there was low editing time and unusual formatting, which led to suspicions of text being cut and pasted from other sources. McLauchlin asserts that he did not cheat; he attributed the findings to his use of Grammarly, a grammar-checking software that he emphasized was approved by the university.
“I’ve been open and honest from the very first accusation,” McLauchlin stated. “The AI component of Grammarly was turned off. This tool is widely advertised and encouraged by the university to assist students with their studies.” Despite the controversy, he managed to pass the unit due to sufficient marks from other assignments, although he remains determined to challenge the university’s decision.
The university’s investigation concluded that, on the balance of probabilities, McLauchlin had used AI inappropriately. Despite his otherwise clean record in completing nine units without prior misconduct, Murdoch University awarded him only 70 percent of the marks for the workbook. The university refrained from discussing specific cases due to privacy concerns but maintained that all students are required to complete an academic integrity module that includes guidelines on the acceptable use of AI.
In a written statement, the university reiterated its commitment to educating students about academic integrity. “Where the use of generative AI in assessments is indicated, the university takes a considered and educative approach under established academic integrity processes,” the statement read. “Our first priority is to support students in understanding appropriate academic practices.”
The growing prevalence of AI tools presents a complex challenge for educational institutions. As students increasingly utilize generative AI programs, there are rising concerns about the integrity of submitted work. Some students have begun submitting their assignments through plagiarism checkers to preempt accusations of cheating. A student, speaking to ABC Radio Perth, noted that her peers are taking steps to protect themselves against potential claims of misconduct.
The debate around AI detection tools is intensifying, particularly as researchers in the United States have found that these systems may unfairly flag essays written by non-native English speakers. Critics argue that reliance on such technology can undermine the educational experience. McLauchlin also voiced concern over the university’s handling of his case, stating that their processes seemed impersonal and did not allow him to present his defense adequately.
“My overall issue is that Murdoch can’t provide a specific word, sentence, paragraph, phrase, or pattern of AI in my assignment,” he explained. “I haven’t used AI in the way they believe I have.” Following the university’s decision, he sought legal advice to explore his options, emphasizing that the matter extends beyond personal vindication. He aims to highlight the potential impact of the university’s processes on students’ futures.
Murdoch University has expressed its openness to feedback regarding its administrative procedures and remains committed to continuous improvement. The situation reflects broader trends in academia as institutions grapple with advances in technology and the implications for academic integrity.
