Why Teachers Value Student Effort Over AI-Written Essays

The Importance of Genuine Student Effort in the Age of AI

Teachers want to see authentic effort from their students, not just perfect essays generated by AI tools. Fatema Elbakoury, an English teacher and former EdSurge Voices of Change fellow, emphasizes the value of resilience and learning through mistakes. In a world where artificial intelligence can quickly create flawless compositions, educators like Elbakoury urge students to embrace the process of writing, including its challenges and imperfections.

Teacher encouraging student writing effort in classroom

Resilience Over Shortcuts

AI-powered writing tools may offer convenient shortcuts, but true learning happens when students wrestle with words themselves. Elbakoury points out that the act of writing builds critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance. By relying solely on AI, students miss out on the growth that comes from struggling, revising, and ultimately improving their own skills.

Educators want to nurture lifelong learners who can express their unique voices, not just submit technically perfect assignments. The message is clear: student effort matters more than a shortcut to perfection.

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