Greek university professor bans glasses in exams without medical certificate

A Mathematics professor at the University of Patras has introduced a controversial measure to prevent students from using smart glasses and other AI-powered technologies to cheat during examinations.

The growing use of artificial intelligence and wearable technology is prompting universities to reconsider how academic integrity can be protected during exams.

At the University of Patras, a Mathematics professor has informed students that they will only be allowed to wear glasses during examinations if they can provide a medical certificate confirming that the glasses are necessary, according to a report by Greece's public broadcaster ERT.

The measure is intended to prevent students from using so-called smart glasses, which can be equipped with cameras, connectivity features and other technologies capable of assisting users during an examination.

Smart glasses have raised concerns among educational institutions because some models can potentially be used to capture visual information and connect to external digital services, creating new opportunities for technologically assisted cheating.

University of Patras responds to AI cheating concerns
The decision comes amid broader concerns over the impact of artificial intelligence and connected devices on academic integrity.

University of Patras Rector Christos Bouras also addressed the issue in comments to ERT, emphasizing that students should rely on their own knowledge during examinations rather than resorting to technological or other unauthorized methods.

The case highlights a growing challenge for universities as AI tools, smart glasses and other wearable technologies become increasingly accessible.

While traditional exam rules have typically focused on smartphones, notes and conventional electronic devices, the emergence of discreet wearable technology is forcing educational institutions to consider new approaches to preventing cheating.