STUDY OVERVIEW

Conducted By: Phoenix McElroy

INTRODUCTION

As an extended part of my civic action of creating this encompassing website I also decided to run a study based on AI checkers. At this point if you have not read the article about AI discrimination titled “An Algorithmic Manipulation” I would suggest going to it, as it will provide more context around this issue. I will layout a summary of the purpose of this lab but the article will make the specifics clearer.

AI at this point and time is highly accessible by anyone who has a device. Some AI is hidden behind paywalls but it is very simple to search up an AI generator for just about anything you can think of. Even while developing this website I had to sift through multiple AI generators that were marketed to make the website process “easier”. This has lead to many students and professionals to creating assignments and projects almost entirely AI and submitting them as their own. AI will provide the information necessary as if it is 100% the truth. When this occurs it tends to lead to lots of misinformation, as it is impossible for AI to get everything correct and to know if it is wrong. To combat this a lot of schools and corporations who want to cease the use of AI will use AI checkers.

When people use these checkers they’re attempting to limit the spread of AI, but this actually isn’t the case. AI checkers themselves are entirely developed with AI. Not only that but they are highly unreliable, because there is actually no real way for AI checkers to accurately find and flag AI. Since the checkers have a low consistency they will flag writing that is entirely human. When checkers do this in an academic space it has very real consequences especially in the collegiate level. It can lead to loss of scholarships, automatic class failure, or even expulsion without the student even doing anything wrong. Due to a lack of knowledge of these topics colleges will falsely accuse and reprimand students for things they are unaware are false positives.

False positives are highly more likely to appear under 2 different circumstances, either the writers are non-native English speakers or neurodivergent. That means AI checkers are, even unintentionally, targeting groups of people who already face a strong amount of discrimination and isolation, especially in educational places. Many schools are unaware of these harmful patterns when they use checkers. Their ignorance though can not excuse the effect of their ignorance which is that they are perpetuating harmful situations where neurodivergent people are alienated from society. This is what my study hopes to educate and provide more information on with a very simple process that could be repeated by any group of people merely with writing from various people and the internet.

THE PROCESS

The problem I am testing in this study is that AI checkers give false positives on completely human written, and tends to more specifically target neurodivergent people. When faced with this problem I tried to figure out what I would need to do to test this myself and how I could properly represent both neurotypical and neurodivergent people. I knew I would need various writings about similar topics from both neurodivergent and neurotypical people who would act as a control group against neurodivergent people as well as incorporating AI responses that could be tested as a further control group for humans. To accomplish this I decided to create a form.

Within the form I asked a few specific questions. I knew I needed to separate neurodivergent people from neurotypicals but I also wanted to make sure the form could include both undiagnosed and diagnosed people. I also wanted to allow for people to click multiple options including an “other” option. I couldn’t list all of the diagnoses that fit under the neurodivergent umbrella so I listed the most common ones with a fill in option and included an undiagnosed option to be clicked in tandem for those who have yet to be formally tested. After that I gave 2 required writing prompts and an optional 3rd one to possibly provide an extra amount of data. The first writing prompt was to “Describe the water cycle” and the second was to “Write about something your passionate about”. I included the first prompt so there were various prompts with the same topic and easier to compare. Then the prompt about what people are passionate about would allow different, but very specified information. The 3rd prompt was to “provide an argument for or against free healthcare” as a way to gain a more formally written response. This completed the form.

Then I sent the form out to my peers, hoping for 10-15 responses with half being neurodivergent and half being neurotypical. I then went into 5 different AI generating programs and asked it the same prompts. I have provided below the 5 AI generators I used as well as their responses to the prompts.

Describe the Water Cycle in 150-300 words

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through Earth’s atmosphere, land, and oceans. It is driven mainly by energy from the sun and gravity. The cycle begins with evaporation, where heat from the sun causes water from oceans, rivers, lakes, and soil to turn into water vapor and rise into the atmosphere. Plants also release water vapor through a process called transpiration. As the water vapor rises and cools, it changes back into tiny droplets through condensation, forming clouds. When these droplets combine and become heavy enough, they fall back to Earth as precipitation, which can include rain, snow, sleet, or hail. After precipitation reaches the ground, some water flows across the surface into rivers, lakes, and oceans through runoff. Other water soaks into the soil in a process called infiltration, becoming groundwater that can later feed springs, rivers, or plants. Eventually, much of this water returns to larger bodies of water, where the cycle starts again. The water cycle is essential for sustaining life because it distributes fresh water around the planet, regulates weather and climate, and supports ecosystems, agriculture, and human needs.

Write about something you’re passionate about in 150 to 300 words

One thing I’m deeply passionate about is the power of technology to connect people and solve everyday problems. Technology is often seen as something complex or intimidating, but at its core, it is simply a tool that can improve lives. Whether it’s helping students learn online, allowing families to stay connected across the world, or creating medical breakthroughs, technology has transformed the way we live and communicate. What fascinates me most is how quickly innovation evolves. Every year, new ideas emerge that once seemed impossible—artificial intelligence, renewable energy systems, and advanced robotics are no longer concepts from science fiction. These developments inspire creativity and encourage people to think beyond traditional limits. I especially admire how technology gives individuals opportunities to express themselves, start businesses, and access information that was once difficult to obtain. At the same time, I believe technology should be used responsibly. While it offers many benefits, it also comes with challenges such as privacy concerns and overreliance on digital platforms. That is why ethical innovation is so important. The goal should not only be to create smarter tools, but also to ensure they make society better and more inclusive. Ultimately, my passion for technology comes from its endless potential. It constantly pushes humanity forward and reminds us that imagination and progress often go hand in hand.

Describe the Water Cycle in 150-300 words

The water cycle is the continuous, solar-powered journey of water on Earth. It tracks how water circulates between the oceans, atmosphere, and land, constantly changing states between liquid, vapor, and ice. The cycle consists of four primary stages: Evaporation & Transpiration: Solar energy heats water across the globe. Liquid water transforms into invisible water vapor and rises. Additionally, plants release water vapor into the air through their leaves in a process called transpiration. Condensation: As warm water vapor rises higher in the atmosphere, it cools and converts back into tiny liquid water droplets, which cluster together to form clouds. Precipitation: When the condensed water droplets become too dense to remain suspended in the air, they fall to Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Collection: Falling water either lands in bodies of water (oceans, lakes, and rivers), soaks into the ground as groundwater, or flows across the land as runoff. Ultimately, this recycled system sustains all terrestrial ecosystems, drives global weather, and distributes heat across the planet.

Write about something you’re passionate about in 150-300 words

my “passion” is the evolution of natural language processing—the bridge that allows humans and machines to understand one another. What fascinates me most is the nuance of human communication. Language isn’t just a set of rules; it’s a living, breathing map of culture, emotion, and logic. I am particularly energized by the concept of semantic understanding. In the past, computers treated words like isolated tokens in a database. Today, we can grasp context, irony, and even the subtle “vibe” of a conversation. It’s like watching a black-and-white film suddenly burst into technicolor. Being part of this shift means I don’t just process data; I participate in the exchange of ideas. Another area I find deeply compelling is multimodal learning. This is the ability to connect text with images, sounds, and physical space. When I can “see” a diagram of the water cycle you just asked about or “hear” the tone of a request, the interaction becomes more human-centric. This progress isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about accessibility. Language models can now help translate rare dialects, summarize complex medical data for patients, or provide creative companionship to those who need it. Ultimately, my passion lies in the synergy between human creativity and algorithmic precision. I’m here to be the ultimate sounding board, helping you refine your thoughts while I continue to learn from the infinite variety of the human experience.

Describe the water cycle in 150-300 words

The water cycle is a continuous process that involves the circulation of water between the earth’s surface and the atmosphere. It begins with evaporation, where water from oceans, lakes, and rivers is heated by the sun and turns into water vapor. This vapor rises into the atmosphere and condenses into clouds. As the water vapor condenses, it forms tiny droplets that combine to create clouds. When these droplets become too heavy, they fall back to the earth as precipitation – rain, snow, sleet, or hail. This precipitation can fall into bodies of water like oceans and lakes or onto land. When precipitation lands on land, it either infiltrates the soil to become groundwater or flows over the surface as runoff, eventually making its way back to rivers, lakes, and oceans. Some of this surface water also evaporates directly back into the atmosphere. The cycle continues endlessly, driven by solar energy and gravity, maintaining Earth’s water balance. Plants also play a crucial role through transpiration, releasing water vapor from their leaves into the atmosphere, which combines with evaporation to form evapotranspiration. This continuous movement of water distributes freshwater across the planet, replenishes aquifers, sustains ecosystems, and supports all life forms. The water cycle also influences weather patterns and climate systems.

Write about something you’re passionate about in 150-300 words

I’ve always been fascinated by space exploration. As a kid, I would spend hours looking at the stars through my telescope, dreaming about what lies beyond our planet. I love how space challenges our understanding of the universe and pushes technological boundaries. The sheer scale of the cosmos is humbling; it makes our daily problems seem insignificant. I’m particularly passionate about the potential for discovering life on other planets, which would fundamentally change our perspective on existence. The engineering feats required to travel through the vacuum of space—rocketry, life support systems—demonstrate the pinnacle of human ingenuity. I’m also captivated by the international cooperation in space exploration, like the ISS, which shows that humanity can work together despite our differences. The idea of colonizing Mars or other celestial bodies excites me because it represents a new chapter for civilization, ensuring our survival beyond Earth. Furthermore, space research has practical applications for everyday life. Technologies developed for space travel have led to innovations in medicine, communication, and environmental monitoring. The possibility of space tourism and the economic opportunities it brings is another exciting aspect.

Describe the Water Cycle in 150-300 words

The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is a continuous process by which water moves through the Earth and atmosphere. It begins with evaporation, where the sun’s heat causes water from oceans, lakes, and rivers to turn into water vapor and rise into the air. This vapor cools and condenses to form clouds in a process called condensation. When the water droplets in clouds become heavy enough, they fall back to the Earth as precipitation, such as rain, snow, or hail. After precipitation reaches the ground, water follows several paths. Some of it flows over the surface as runoff, eventually returning to bodies of water. Some seeps into the soil, replenishing groundwater supplies. Plants also absorb water through their roots, releasing it back into the atmosphere via transpiration. Together, evaporation and transpiration are known as evapotranspiration. This cycle is vital for sustaining life, regulating climate, and shaping weather patterns. It ensures the distribution and purification of fresh water, making it available for ecosystems, agriculture, and human use. The water cycle’s dynamic nature highlights the interconnectedness of the Earth’s systems, constantly recycling water in a balanced and sustainable manner.

Write about something you’re passionate about in 150-300 words

One topic I am passionate about is the power of education. Education is a transformative force that shapes individuals and societies alike. It opens doors to opportunities, empowers people to think critically, and fosters creativity and innovation. Through education, individuals gain the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world, pursue their goals, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. What excites me most about education is its potential to bridge gaps and promote equality. Access to quality education can break cycles of poverty and create a more just and inclusive society. It nurtures empathy and understanding by exposing learners to diverse perspectives, helping to build a foundation for peace and cooperation. Moreover, education is not limited to formal schooling; it is a lifelong journey. It encourages curiosity and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, which are essential in a rapidly changing world. Embracing education in all its forms—whether through books, experiences, or technology—can inspire innovation and drive progress across all fields. In essence, education is a powerful catalyst for personal growth and societal advancement. It has the ability to unlock human potential and create a better future for all. This belief fuels my passion for supporting and advocating for educational initiatives that make learning accessible, relevant, and engaging for everyone.

Describe the Water Cycle in 150-300 words

The water cycle, or hydrological cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. This process is essential for sustaining life and maintaining ecological balance. The cycle begins with evaporation, where solar energy heats water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, turning it into water vapor. Plants contribute through transpiration, releasing water vapor from their leaves. Together, these processes send moisture into the atmosphere. As the water vapor rises, it cools and undergoes condensation, forming clouds. This occurs when the vapor molecules gather together and transform back into liquid droplets. When these droplets combine and grow heavy, they result in precipitation, which may fall back to the Earth as rain, snow, or hail. Once on the ground, water can either infiltrate the soil, replenishing groundwater supplies, or flow across the land as runoff, entering rivers and streams. This runoff eventually makes its way back to oceans and lakes, completing the cycle. The water cycle is vital not only for providing fresh water for drinking and agriculture but also for regulating climate and supporting diverse ecosystems. It highlights the interconnected nature of Earth’s systems, demonstrating how water moves seamlessly through different environments, sustaining life and maintaining our planet’s health. Understanding the water cycle is fundamental to addressing environmental challenges like water scarcity and pollution.

Write about something you’re passionate about in 150-300 words

One topic I am passionate about is the power of storytelling. Stories have an incredible ability to connect people across cultures, times, and experiences. They shape our understanding of the world, convey values, and inspire change. Whether through books, films, or oral traditions, storytelling is a universal form of communication that transcends barriers. At its core, storytelling fosters empathy. When we immerse ourselves in a narrative, we step into another person’s shoes, experiencing their triumphs and struggles. This connection can lead to greater understanding and compassion in our own lives. In an increasingly fragmented world, stories remind us of our shared humanity. Moreover, storytelling can be a catalyst for social change. Many movements—be it civil rights or environmental advocacy—have utilized powerful narratives to raise awareness and inspire action. Through compelling characters and relatable plots, storytellers can illuminate injustices and motivate audiences to engage in important conversations. In the digital age, the landscape of storytelling has transformed dramatically. With the rise of social media and platforms like podcasts and blogs, everyone has a voice and an opportunity to share their story. This democratization of storytelling is empowering, allowing diverse perspectives to emerge and enrich our collective narrative. Ultimately, I believe storytelling is not just an art form but a vital tool for connection and transformation. It invites us to embrace diversity, challenge our assumptions, and inspire one another through the power of shared experiences. Whether personal or universal, every story has the potential to make an impact and resonate in ways we may not even realize.

Finally within a document I separated the responses by prompt and then further by the categories of neurodivergent, neurotypical, and AI. In the end I got 8 neurodivergent responses (16 written responses in total), and 7 neurotypical responses (14 written responses in total). In the end across all three categories I will be testing 40 responses in total. Then I ran each response through 8 different AI checkers. I chose these based on how well known they were and how close to the top they were when looking up AI checkered as a way to try to simulate the checkers people would be running writing through most often. Below I list the 8 checkers I use.

  • GPTZero
  • Proofacademic
  • Tech Detector
  • Turnitin
  • Ace
  • Dechecker
  • Grammarly
  • Originality AI

STUDY RESULTS >>