University of Chicago Expands AI and Device Bans
Humanities courses now join law school classrooms in prohibiting personal electronic devices and AI usage.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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The University of Chicago expanded its electronic device restrictions to humanities classes starting September 28, 2026. The policy bans phones, laptops, and smartwatches, while requiring students to use printed materials and manual writing for coursework.
Why it matters
The institution maintains that academic rigor depends on personal effort, suggesting that reliance on AI and digital devices undermines independent thinking. By redesigning assessments to favor in-class writing, the university aims to reinforce traditional analytical skills.
The university is currently ranked sixth among national institutions in the United States. A recent student newspaper survey involved interviews with 10 faculty members regarding the new instructional requirements.
The players
University of Chicago
This private research institution is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States.
William H.J. Hubbard
He is a professor who authored the official rationale justifying the university’s restrictive approach to electronic devices and AI.
Anthropic
This artificial intelligence research and safety company provides the Claude suite of AI tools.
The details
Under the new mandate, students must complete a mandatory Canvas module on responsible generative AI use before obtaining an account. Instructors have shifted assessments toward oral examinations and in-person writing to bypass the limitations imposed by the absence of digital tools.
Timeline
June 2026: The university established a partnership with Anthropic to provide Claude tools to the campus community.
July 2026: The law school prohibited electronic devices in first-year classrooms.
September 28, 2026: The device and AI restrictions took effect for the autumn quarter.
October 12, 2026: Professor William H.J. Hubbard published the official rationale for the new restrictions.
October 14, 2026: No systematic follow-up measuring policy effects has been identified.
The Tech Race
The policy marks a departure from the university's June agreement to provide Anthropic's Claude tools to the campus. This restriction highlights an ongoing tension between integrating cutting-edge AI and preserving traditional pedagogical methods in elite education.
Students must now adapt to manual reading and writing methods, as well as complete a specific Canvas module before using AI tools. These changes require a shift in daily study habits and a transition away from digital-first classroom workflows.
The takeaway
The university's focus on manual work emphasizes the value of traditional analytical methods over technological convenience. Students should prepare for a classroom environment that prioritizes oral exams and pen-and-paper assignments over digital support.
Further reading
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Source note: This article includes information reported by VnExpress International – Latest news, business, travel and analysis from Vietnam.
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