SQA approach to use of AI in portfolio pieces

Date published: 20/05/2025

I am writing to submit a request under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act regarding the Scottish Qualifications Authority’s approach to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in portfolio pieces.

Specifically, I would like to request information on how the SQA is currently addressing the use of AI-generated content in student assessments. This includes any methods, tools, or software the SQA is using to detect AI involvement in student submissions, as well as the steps being taken to ensure the authenticity and integrity of portfolios. Additionally, I am interested in any guidance or policies the SQA has implemented to educate students on the ethical use of AI in assessments.

If this information is not stored with you please advise me on where this information could be found.

Specifically, I would like to request information on how the SQA is currently addressing the use of AI-generated content in student assessments. This includes any methods, tools, or software the SQA is using to detect AI involvement in student submissions, as well as the steps being taken to ensure the authenticity and integrity of portfolios

SQA rely on approved centres, such as schools, colleges and external training providers, to know their learners and spot instances of inappropriate AI use which can be addressed by the centre using their malpractice processes. 

As part of any assessment of coursework submitted to SQA, we rely on our appointees who mark the submissions to refer suspected instances of AI use for investigation. SQA will also use Turnitin as a tool to help identify use of AI in coursework submissions as part of our malpractice processes.

SQA also provide guidance to centres and appointees on how to detect coursework that is potentially AI generated. 

Further information about our approach to malpractice is available here: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/96858.html

Additionally, I am interested in any guidance or policies the SQA has implemented to educate students on the ethical use of AI in assessments.

Currently we don't provide any official guidance or policy on the ethical implementation on AI in assessment. Our current stance only states where it should not be used. Information on this is available on our website using the link below:

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) in assessments - SQA