AI and Academic Integrity
As AI tools like Microsoft Copilot become more integrated into educational settings, it is essential to maintain academic integrity. This page provides guidelines on the appropriate use of AI in the classroom and offers tips on how to discuss these topics with students.
Appropriate Use of AI in the Classroom
Support, Not Substitute
AI tools should be used to support learning and productivity, not to substitute for a student's own work. Encourage students to use AI for brainstorming, drafting, and refining their ideas, but remind them that the final work should be their own.
Transparency
Students should always be transparent about their use of AI tools. If they use AI to assist with an assignment, they should disclose this in their work. This promotes honesty and allows instructors to understand the extent of AI assistance.
Understanding Limitations
Educate students about the limitations of AI. While AI can provide valuable assistance, it is not infallible and can sometimes produce incorrect or biased information. Students should critically evaluate AI-generated content.
Ethical Considerations
Discuss the ethical implications of using AI, including issues related to data privacy and the potential for misuse. Encourage students to use AI responsibly and ethically.
Talking with Students about AI Use
Set Clear Expectations
Clearly outline your expectations for AI use in your syllabus and during class discussion. Specify which tasks are appropriate for AI assistance and which should be completed independently.
Provide Examples
Give concrete examples of appropriate and inappropriate uses of AI. For instance, using AI to generate ideas for a research paper is appropriate, but using AI to write the entire paper is not.
Encourage Critical Thinking
Foster a classroom environment that values critical thinking and originality. Encourage students to use AI as a tool to enhance their learning, not as a shortcut to completing assignments.
Discuss Academic Integrity
Reinforce the importance of academic integrity and the consequences of academic dishonesty. Explain how misuse of AI can undermine their learning and the value of education.
Offer Guidance
Provide resources and guidance on how to use AI tools effectively and ethically. This can include tutorials, workshops, and one-on-one support.
Sample Syllabus Statement
Here is an example of a syllabus statement you can use to communicate your policy on AI use:
Use of AI Tools: In this course, you are encouraged to use AI tools like Microsoft Copilot to support your learning and productivity. However, it is important to maintain academic integrity. You must disclose any use of AI in your assignments and ensure that the final work is your own. Misuse of AI tools, such as using them to complete assignments without proper attribution, will be considered a violation of academic integrity policies.
By setting clear guidelines and fostering open discussions about the use of AI, you can help students understand the appropriate and ethical use of these tools. This not only maintains academic integrity but also prepares students to use AI responsibly in their future careers.