ai-education generative-ai teaching-methods student-engagement

College instructor turns to typewriters to curb AI-written work

sentinelcolorado.com

April 18, 2026

4 min read

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67/100

Summary

Grit Matthias Phelps, a German language instructor at Cornell University, has students use manual typewriters once each semester to eliminate reliance on online tools and generative AI. This exercise, initiated in spring 2023, aims to foster a deeper engagement with the writing process.

Key Takeaways

Grit Matthias Phelps, a German language instructor at Cornell University, introduced manual typewriters to her students to combat the use of generative AI in assignments.
The analog assignment aims to teach students the experience of writing without digital assistance, fostering deeper engagement and interaction among classmates.
Students reported that using typewriters reduced distractions and encouraged more intentional thinking about their writing.
Many students struggled with typing on manual typewriters, highlighting the physical demands and lack of intuitive use compared to modern technology.

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Analysis ready

Community Sentiment

Mixed

Positives

Shifting to project-based assessments may help signal true competence beyond AI capabilities, potentially preserving the value of university degrees.
The use of paper-driven workflows in education could enhance student engagement and understanding, countering the risks of AI-assisted cheating.

Concerns

The reliance on AI for assignments undermines the educational experience, as students may graduate without essential knowledge and skills.
Exams are increasingly vulnerable to AI cheating, leading to concerns about the integrity and value of academic credentials.