JenP, I am making them draft a research paper (2000 words) by hand in pen with no access to tech They've spent 3 weeks taking notes and outlining and this week is writing week. So they don't need me at all.

This is good in that they are actually learning how to do it, and, also, I'm curious how you feel about this being the way you have to do it to guard against tech creep. (I mean, and outright "Dear ChatGPT, please write me a paper.") Specifically, is it taking time away from other topics or areas you'd ideally prefer to cover with the in-class time?

ETA: This would have done me a WORLD of good back when I was in HS but for different reasons, of course. My only getting down to it because the deadline is upon me method of paper writing taught me some skills, for sure, but not the ones my teachers were shooting for, I'm pretty sure.

It's a scenario I wonder about a lot for someone who is not a teacher and doesn't have kids! How do you encourage 'em think and learn discernment in this emerging tech environment.

...says the woman who relies 100% on GPS. (But, I CAN read and use an actual paper map, at least, if I need to, up to and including addjng up miles along a route and such.)