“This Is Getting Out of Hand”: Teacher Calls Out Learners Using AI for Homework
- A teacher shared a learner’s unusual homework submission that raises concerns about how AI is being used in classrooms
- The answers in the homework didn’t match the questions at all, prompting the teacher to call it out and question the growing reliance on AI
- The moment sparked a wider discussion among educators who admit they are seeing similar patterns more often
- Briefly News spoke to teacher Thusi, who shared insight into the realities teachers are facing in today’s classrooms
Homework was supposed to be routine, just another task to tick off and take home. However, one student’s answer completely threw everyone off. Suddenly, their paper turned into a huge conversation about the usage of AI.
Source: TikTok
A teacher’s post has sparked a wider debate after she exposed how learners are starting to misuse AI tools in the classroom. The picture posted on 13 March 2026 by TikTok user @mrs_blessed_m showed a learner’s marked paper. The assignment was straightforward; learners were asked to draw safety signs.
But instead of submitting drawings, one learner handed in an AI-generated answer. It was a written response saying they couldn’t generate the image yet and that the feature would be available soon. The wording immediately raised suspicion. The teacher didn’t ignore it, marking in red pen, she questioned the response and pointed out the issue directly, making it clear that this wasn’t acceptable.
AI misuse raises concerns in classrooms
The moment struck a nerve with other educators who said they are seeing the same pattern more often. Some teachers gave her advice on how to deal with learners using AI, and ensure they don't continue with it going forward. User @mrs_blessed_m also took to TikTok to ask:
DON'T MISS IT: Stay Away From Fake News With Our Short, Free Fact-Checking Course. Join And Get Certified!
'Hey teachers! 🙋 Ever feel like AI's taking over your classroom? 😅 Learners copying and pasting without grasping the concept 🙄. Anyone else dealing with this? Share your experiences!"
Now the conversation has shifted beyond just one homework task. Many are asking how schools should deal with AI, especially when it starts replacing actual learning. While technology can help, this situation showed how easily it can also be misused if there are no boundaries in place.
Thusi explained to Briefly News that the pressures teachers already face make challenges like this even harder to manage.
“Teacher burnout is not just common, it is becoming increasingly widespread. Large class sizes, limited resources, administrative overload, and the emotional responsibility of supporting learners all contribute significantly.”
He said teaching goes far beyond what people see in the classroom, which adds to the frustration when learners rely too heavily on shortcuts.
“Teaching is not just about delivering lessons. It involves extensive planning, marking, administration, and adapting content to meet diverse learner needs.”
Thusi added that educators are often dealing with multiple responsibilities at once.
“In many cases, teachers are not only educators but also counsellors, social workers, and role models. Many learners come from difficult backgrounds, and teachers carry that emotional weight while still being expected to perform at a high level.”
According to him, stronger support systems are needed to help teachers cope with modern challenges in education.
“Reducing administrative burdens, providing mental health support, and ensuring schools are properly resourced would make a big difference. Teachers also need to feel valued in their working conditions.”
He emphasised that improving the education environment is key to ensuring both teachers and learners can succeed.
“Ultimately, retaining teachers requires creating an environment where they can thrive, not just survive.”
Source: TikTok
Watch the TikTok video below:
Here’s what Mzansi said
Gorgeousjoy_ wrote:
“Have them write their work in class and limit access to phones. 😂”
Ntokozo Hadebe said:
“As an English teacher, when it comes to essay writing, out of 10 learners, 6 use AI. I’m tired of making everyone rewrite, so I just mark it.”
TshidiMonyaki wrote:
“I gave the Grade 7s zero for paragraph writing for using AI. I even went an extra mile with a personalised message: ‘Please use your brain.’”
S.M_Bal wrote:
“My learners. 😭 It’s painful. 💔”
justKay wrote:
“Parents don’t check homework.”
Tebello Mofokeng wrote:
“Haibo. 🤣🤣”
Star wrote:
“At least it’s neat and tidy. ❤️”
3 Other Briefly News stories related to using AI
- A TikToker broke down everything that is currently happening with Unisa students getting caught in their exams using AI.
- Social media users are accusing Scotts Maphuma of using ChatGPT to generate an apology, leaving Mzansi even more angry.
- A young South African woman found out that recruiters are now using AI to interview people, which has made it harder for people to find work.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
