Guidelines for Faculty
Here are some guidelines for faculty members to follow when using GAI tools (such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok and Copilot) and to prevent student plagiarism and dishonesty:
- Clearly define the role of generative AI in academic work. Explain to students what generative AI tools are, how they work, and their limitations. Provide a thorough understanding of how these tools can be used to enhance learning while cautioning against over-reliance on them for assignments and assessments.
- Supervise GAI practice in classrooms. Allow students to experiment with the AI tools under the faculty guidance so they can learn from practical experience about both the benefits and pitfalls of these technologies. Encourage verbal engagement and accountability.
- Consider adding periodic verbal check-ins (in person or via Teams) where students are asked to explain their project progress, summarize their research path, and justify their use of AI tools and sources. These checkpoints help confirm students’ original thinking and discourage over-reliance on AI tools.
- Establish clear expectations for AI use in assignments. Provide clear instructions for writing tasks, clarifying whether AI tools can be used and how. Encourage students to use AI for brainstorming or research assistance, but emphasize that the final product must reflect their own work, critical thinking and analysis. Assignments may require students to define key vocabulary and technical terms used in their analysis, demonstrating full comprehension of their work. This strategy reinforces deep learning and deters AI-generated content that students may not fully understand.
- Require proper citation for AI-generated content. If students use AI-generated content, they must cite it appropriately (like in APA format). Provide examples of correct citation and highlight that failing to do so constitutes academic dishonesty.
- Use AI detection tools responsibly. When AI is not permitted in an assignment, use AI detection software like Turnitin for AI-generated content. However, clarify to students that detection tools are not foolproof, and all suspected misuse should be reviewed in context.
- Follow institutional academic misconduct policies. If you suspect plagiarism, document evidence and communicate with the student to discuss the situation. Report the findings in according to the institution’s Academic Conduct Policy as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Sample Guidelines to Present to Students
Faculty may incorporate the guidelines below in syllabi or other course materials to reinforce acceptable use of artificial intelligence tools.
- Enhance, not Replace. Use generative AI tools to enhance your learning experience in your academic assignments and projects, but not as a replacement for your own ideas and effort. Your own ideas and diligent work are essential components of your academic growth. While generative AI can help you generate ideas, your own critical thinking, creativity, and academic integrity remain fundamental components of your academic success.
- Avoid Plagiarism. Generative AI tools may provide you with answers or ideas, but you must ensure that you give credit to the source of the information. Plagiarism, whether intentional or unintentional, is a serious academic offense and can lead to severe consequences, including academic penalties or expulsion. Be prepared to explain your research process, define any technical terms, or explain how you used generative AI tools in real time during check-ins or class discussions.
- Validate Your Work. AI-generated content can contain inaccuracies, biases, or outdated information, so it is essential to cross-check AI-provided facts with reliable, scholarly sources usually found only by using Library databases. Double-check the accuracy of the information provided by generative AI tools against peer-reviewed sources..
- Cite Your Sources. Avoid copying and pasting content from generative AI tools. Even if you give credit to the source, the act of copying and pasting extensive portions of text is not acceptable. Use these tools to understand concepts and ideas but contextualize the information and contribute to the thought process and development of your assignment. Cite sources in the style required for your courses, usually APA or AMA.
- Work Ethically. Be honest and ethical in your use of generative AI tools. Avoid using these tools to cheat or deceive your professors or peers. Remember that academic integrity is essential to your academic success and personal growth. Academic integrity is a cornerstone of your educational journey and essential to personal and professional development.
- Consult with Academic Support Professionals. If you have questions or concerns about the use of generative AI tools, talk to your professors, academic advisors, or a librarian. They can provide you with guidance and support to ensure that you are using these tools in a responsible and ethical manner.