Townsend Harris High School in Queens, New York, has announced a new policy requiring students to submit handwritten essays instead of typed ones.
The decision, effective from September, applies to summer reading assignments and aims to discourage the use of AI tools like ChatGPT for academic work.
English teacher Brian Sweeney emphasised that handwritten essays offer a more authentic reflection of student understanding. “We want students to engage with the material themselves, not outsource their thinking,” he told The Classic, the school’s student newspaper.
The policy has sparked mixed reactions. Some students argue that it penalises everyone for the actions of a few, while others believe it will foster genuine engagement with reading materials. Concerns have also been raised about fairness, especially for students who write more slowly.
This shift reflects a broader debate in educational institutions about how to balance technological advancement with originality and ethical learning. While New York City’s Department of Education has lifted its blanket ban on ChatGPT, schools are still grappling with how to integrate AI responsibly.
Experts remain divided. Punya Mishra of Arizona State University advocates for teaching students how to use AI effectively, while tutoring expert Frances Kweller supports Townsend’s approach as a safeguard against academic dishonesty.
As AI tools become increasingly accessible, schools like Townsend Harris are navigating uncharted territory—seeking solutions that preserve the essence of learning in a digital age.
