How to Use Generative AI in the Syllabus

Example of How to Discuss Generative AI in the Syllabus

The syllabus is the best place to provide guidance to students about the appropriate use of generative AI. There are myriad ways to approach addressing generative AI in your syllabus.  First, consider what you would like to factor into your AI policy. The following list contains some examples of topics you may consider including that aim to emphasize the responsible use of these technologies to maintain ethical standards in the learning environment.

  1. Emphasize Critical Thinking: This course places a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking skills when exploring and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Students are encouraged to approach AI with a critical and analytical mindset, evaluating its applications, implications, and limitations to make informed decisions and contributions.
  2. Originality of Work: All submitted work must be the original creation of the student, unless otherwise specified in the assignment guidelines. The use of generative AI models, such as language models or content generators, to produce entire or significant portions of the work is not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise by the instructor.
  3. Attribution and Citations: When incorporating content generated by AI models, proper attribution and citation practices must be followed. If you use generative AI to assist in research, writing, or content creation, acknowledge the AI's contribution and include appropriate references for the underlying data or models used.
  4. Plagiarism and Academic Integrity: Plagiarism, including copying and submitting work created by others (including AI-generated content), without proper attribution, is strictly prohibited. Any instance of plagiarism will be subject to the institution's academic integrity policy, which may include penalties ranging from failing the assignment to academic disciplinary actions. [See UC Merced's policies on plagiarism and academic honesty here]
  5. Assessment Guidelines: If AI-generated content is permitted in specific assignments or projects, explicit guidelines will be provided. Follow these guidelines carefully to ensure that you comply with the requirements for responsible use of AI in academic work.
  6. Understanding AI Limitations: Recognize that generative AI models have limitations, such as potential biases in the training data and the inability to fully grasp context and nuance. Avoid relying solely on AI-generated content for critical or sensitive assignments that require human understanding and judgment.
  7. Data Privacy and Security: When using generative AI tools or platforms, prioritize the privacy and security of your data. Be cautious about sharing sensitive or personal information while experimenting with AI technologies.
  8. Peer Collaboration: Collaboration with peers is encouraged, but when using generative AI tools, each student must contribute their original ideas and content to the project. Do not share AI-generated content as your sole contribution to group work.
  9. Course-Specific Guidelines: Some assignments or courses may have specific rules or exceptions regarding the use of AI-generated content. Always review and follow the instructor's guidelines for individual projects.
  10. Instructor's Discretion: The instructor reserves the right to use plagiarism detection software or other methods to verify the originality of students' work, including the identification of AI-generated content.