To be a responsible user of AI tools... know that you are ultimately responsible for your learning, find out how gen AI tools work (at least on a very basic level), be aware of drawbacks and risks, understand that this technology is constantly changing, and stay on top of what is allowed and prohibited for each class, assignment, or project.
Every class has a syllabus that outlines the plan for learning and the instructor’s expectations. Look for the instructor’s rules for using AI (artificial intelligence). If AI is not mentioned, ASK your instructor about it right away.
Expect that AI policies will vary between professors, courses, and even by projects and class assignments. Some instructors will encourage or even require you to use AI, while others will prohibit it. Those decisions are based on the learning goals for the course. Keep track of the policies for each course and assignment so you don’t get confused - or get into trouble.
Ensure all work submitted is your own, representing your unique voice and ideas. When permitted, you can use AI tools for help but not to do the work for you.
Follow your instructor’s and your institution’s rules for acknowledging or citing AI use. If you are uncertain, ASK about it. There are APA and MLA suggested guidelines for citing generative AI work.
Any information you share with an AI tool is no longer private and may be used in ways you can’t control. Guard your data vigilantly - never share sensitive, personal, or confidential information about yourself, others, or your organization with AI systems. Some tools will allow you to OPT-OUT of training.
Adapted from studentguidetoai.org, by Elon University, CC BY-NC license.