Prof. Goldman bans fully AI-generated assignments in Hebrew University data science classes
The associate professor requires students to explain how they used AI tools and detects machine-written text to ensure human critical thinking remains central to coursework.
By Elijah Fitzgerald ·
Prof. Claudia V. Goldman has established strict protocols for artificial intelligence use in her Data Science Department courses at the Hebrew University Business School in Jerusalem. Since joining the faculty in July 2024, she has mandated that students clearly credit AI tools and explain their application. Fully AI-generated answers are not accepted in her classes.
Goldman told reporters that students are aware she can detect AI in their writing. She instructs them to use the technology for brainstorming while maintaining critical oversight. Students must check for biased information and verify that cited sources actually exist. This approach aims to integrate AI into problem-solving without removing human analysis.
The professor assesses student understanding through a combination of classwork, presentations, and peer-organized activities. These in-person evaluations allow her to gauge comprehension directly. The curriculum also includes discussions on human responsibility, values, and professional ethics.
Goldman, who moved to Israel from Argentina in January 1984, holds 24 patents and has published more than 50 academic papers. Her career includes research positions at Bar-Ilan University, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and the University of Haifa between 1999 and 2005. She later worked in the technology sector for 15 years, serving as a team leader at Samsung Telecom Research and a research scientist at General Motors in Herzliya.
At General Motors, she worked on introducing learning agents into vehicle user experiences to help drivers focus on the road. Her academic background includes a BSc in computer science, mathematics, and electronics, an MSc in computer science, and a PhD in computer science from the Hebrew University. Her doctoral supervisor was Prof. Jeff Rosenschein.
When asked about Bill Gates's concept of reserving certain jobs for humans, Goldman rejected a simple binary approach. She stated the issue is about understanding AI benefits in different roles and identifying critical skills to strengthen them. The Business School currently offers related courses such as AI for Social Good and Responsible AI. The fall semester is now underway, and the university continues its Free Listener Program for senior citizens.
