Because generative AI is so new, and because faculty perspectives on its use may differ, students may not know what is allowed or not allowed, or in the case of courses that utilize these tools, how to use them effectively. Students will need to be guided through the various considerations that these tools raise when it comes to their learning.
What do students need to know about ChatGPT and related tools?
When it comes to generative AI students will need to be made aware of its ethical considerations, limitations, and how to use it effectively and in a way that enhances learning rather than bipassing it.
Tips
- Be transparent. Talking openly about AI will help demystify its use and help students to assess how it should be used in various contexts, and when its use is not appropriate.
- Explain to students what they are learning, why it is important to learn this information or skill, and how the learning activities they are engaging are designed to help foster the learning process, along with how the use of AI tools could potentially either undermine or enhance that learning process. These practices have been found to help increase motivation and help students develop metacognition skills.
- If appropriate, model course-relevant uses of AI and talk aloud about limitations and pitfalls that you encounter.
- Stay informed. Explore how AI can enhance your productivity and practice. Utilizing AI tools is arguably the best method to stay current with AI trends. This not only keeps you informed about potential misuse of AI by students but also helps you identify opportunities to integrate AI into your subject area.
Additional Resources
- Article: How you should-and shouldn’t-use ChatGPT as a student
- eBook: Chatbot Prompting: A guide for students, educators, and an AI-augmented workforce
- Article: Metacognition (from Columbia University)
What should I include in my course-level AI policy?
The Manhattan College Academic Integrity prohibits any form of academic dishonesty, including unsanctioned use of AI. What is considered acceptable use of AI tools will vary by instructor and course. For that reason, it is important to specify in the syllabus what uses of ChatGPT and similar tools, if any, are permitted and what uses are not permitted.
Possible Considerations:
- What is your attitude or mindset regarding AI?
- Will students be permitted to generate text using AI? If so, to what extent?
- Will students be permitted to use AI to assist them with their writing? Keep in mind that many standard tools, including web browsers and word processors, have already started integrating AI features or have plans to do so soon. The distinction between AI and non-AI usage is becoming increasingly blurred.
- What is your rationale for permitting or forbidding AI use generally or for the specific context of the course?
- What is the penalty for unauthorized AI use? Please note that procedures for handling academic integrity violations are outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
Additional Resources
- AI Syllabus Language Heuristic A walkthrough guide for developing and communicating class AI policies
- Classroom Policies for AI Generative Tools A crowdsourced list of instructor-developed policy statements expressing various perspectives on AI use
- A Guide to Generative AI Policy Making Considerations for how to respond to AI when developing policies.
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