Why Does Your Child Need to Know How to Use AI in Academic Writing Ethically?

For international students, studying abroad can be both an exciting opportunity and a daunting challenge. Adjusting to a new educational system, navigating unfamiliar academic expectations, and tackling language barriers are just the tip of the iceberg. Add to that homesickness and the lack of a built-in support network, and the weight of academic life can feel overwhelming.

From a lecturer's perspective

In my years of teaching study skills and academic English to international students at UK universities, I have seen these struggles up close. Over the past decade, I have helped students from all corners of the globe adapt to the unique demands of UK higher education. My role has been to guide them in mastering academic writing, critical thinking, and research skills, all while building their confidence in a language that may not be their own.

A real-life story that you don't want your child to experience

One challenge I now see growing rapidly is how students approach the use of artificial intelligence tools, particularly in writing. Many students do not fully understand how to use AI ethically or effectively. Let me share a real-world example to illustrate why this matters. A Spanish-speaking student I worked with decided to use ChatGPT to translate her essay from Spanish into English. Unfortunately, she didn’t realise the AI’s limitations, nor did she know how to refine or validate the AI-generated content. When she submitted her essay, Turnitin flagged the work as plagiarised due to overlapping phrases and an unnatural writing style that didn’t match her usual tone. This mistake cost her dearly—she failed the module and had to retake it.

How to use AI to sharpen critical thinking skills

The ability to use AI the right way isn’t just about avoiding mistakes—it’s about fostering essential skills that international students need to thrive in UK higher education. Tools such as AI can help students save time and improve clarity, but they also offer an opportunity to practice critical thinking skills: selecting, evaluating, and analysing information. These skills are not only crucial for academic success but are also highly valued by UK universities. Teaching students to critically engage with AI helps them go beyond passively accepting what’s generated. Instead, they learn to refine ideas, question sources, and craft arguments that meet the rigorous standards of higher education.

A friend rather than a foe

This is why I’m so passionate about teaching students to embrace technology, not fear it. AI isn’t going away—it’s becoming an integral part of academia and beyond. The key is learning to make friends with it, using it as a supportive tool to enhance writing, save time, and improve clarity, without compromising academic integrity.

With the right guidance, students can turn AI from a potential pitfall into a powerful ally. That’s exactly why I’ve created my 10-week course on AI in Academic Writing and launched my newsletter. Through this newsletter, I’ll share actionable tips to help students master academic writing, use AI ethically, and navigate the challenges of studying in a new country with confidence.

???? My name is Kasia and here at Oxford Academy of English we help international students transition smoothly into their academic and cultural environment.

?? Join my 10-week AI in academic writing?course so that you are set for success before you come to study at a UK university.?

Join my newsletter today and take the first step toward making AI your child’s academic ally! Get more information here >?https://blog.oaoe.co.uk/-ai-in-academic-writing