University of Sydney 'two-lane' assessment for the AI era

Facing the challenge of generative AI in higher education, the University of Sydney moved away from an AI-detection approach toward a redesigned 'two-lane' assessment framework, embedded across its coursework, assessment and academic-integrity policies.

The framework aims to preserve valid signals of student learning while also teaching and assessing skilled, ethical use of AI, replacing what the university describes as an 'unwinnable' AI-detection arms race with a transparent, replicable design.

Lane 1 is secure, in-person assessment that verifies students can demonstrate core knowledge and skills without external aids. Lane 2 is open assessment that expects and develops appropriate AI use. All 2025 coursework assessments were mapped to the two-lane framework, with degree-level assessment plans continuing to roll out.

University reporting frames the approach as a leading and replicable institutional response to AI in assessment, embedded in policy rather than reliant on detection technology, though evidence of its learning impact is still described as emerging.