ChatGPT in the Classroom: Opportunities and Ethical Challenges for Academic Integrity

The emergence of ChatGPT and other large language models has introduced unprecedented opportunities and challenges in educational settings. This study examines the dual nature of ChatGPT's integration into classroom environments, analyzing both its potential as an educational tool and the ethical concerns it raises regarding academic integrity. Through a mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and content analysis, this research investigates how educators and students perceive and utilize ChatGPT, the implications for learning outcomes, and the effectiveness of current academic integrity policies. Results indicate that while ChatGPT offers significant pedagogical benefits including personalized learning support and enhanced accessibility, it simultaneously poses risks to traditional assessment methods and raises questions about authorship and original thought. The study proposes a framework for responsible AI integration in education that balances innovation with academic integrity, emphasizing the need for updated policies, enhanced digital literacy, and redesigned assessment strategies. These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on AI in education and provide practical recommendations for educators, administrators, and policymakers navigating this transformative technology.