What is generative artificial intelligence?
Generative AI is a term that encompasses a wide variety of artificial intelligence tools that can draft or substantively edit academic work for a user. The usefulness of these tools depends on the user’s understanding of the tool and subject matter knowledge of the material created.
What tools are considered generative AI?
Any tool that generates or substantively edits content is considered generative AI. Such tools include (but aren’t limited to) Grammarly, ChatGPT, Dall-E, Microsoft CoPilot, and Google Gemini.
Can students use generative artificial intelligence to complete assignments?
Students can only use artificial intelligence tools when allowed by instructors. Permission to use these tools can vary from program to program, course to course, and assignment to assignment. If you are unsure whether you can use an AI tool on an assignment, you should ask your instructor before using the tool.
Do I have to cite or otherwise disclose how I used generative artificial intelligence?
When students are allowed to use generative AI tools, they may be required to cite the tools that are used and/or provide specific information about their use. Best practice is to keep detailed notes of what tools are used and how, including any transcripts of their use. This way, you can show how you followed all directions or requirements for the use of these tools.
Can students get in trouble for using generative artificial intelligence without permission?
Yes, the WVU Policy on Student Academic Integrity prohibits the unauthorized use of technological resources, such as generative AI.
What if I use Grammarly to edit my papers?
Grammarly is a tool that has been around for quite a while, and it has changed over time. Grammarly has recently shifted its focus to offer substantive text editing and text generation based on user prompts. If you use Grammarly to create or substantively edit work on your behalf, you may be violating WVU policy and you should ask your instructor if using Grammarly this way is permitted.
Why does WVU care what tools I use to complete my work?
Assignments are meant to develop and assess a student’s understanding of course topics and their ability to communicate their understanding effectively. Some generative AI tools undermine student learning and prevent instructors from evaluating a student’s knowledge of a subject or ability to communicate. In order to fairly assess students, it is important that student submissions honestly reflect their knowledge and abilities.
AI tools are constantly evolving. How can I know what is ok to use?
It is important that your work honestly reflect your knowledge of a subject and ability to communicate your understanding. If you use a tool that replaces or substantially enhances your knowledge or ability, you should discuss its use with your instructor before submitting work created using the tool.