Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Academia: Resources for Faculty

AI and ChatGPT

Many universities and institutions of higher education are beginning to address the variety of questions, concerns, and ideas related to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academia. These institutions are sharing a diverse range of resources for faculty, administrators, and students to refer to when navigating AI inside and outside of the classroom. These resources are linked within this page, and faculty are encouraged to review resources that may be applicable to their courses and questions.

Cycling through new technologies and the implications of them is an ever-present reality of higher education. With new technologies comes legitimate excitement and concerns that raise important questions and provides new opportunities.

Faculty Development at Texas State University has collected various resources on the subject of ChatGPT and AI in higher education and created a page that faculty can use to receive possible clarity on their questions, assist with their course design, and navigate the evolving changes associated with AI.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a free-to-use tool created by OpenAI that was released in late 2022. ChatGPT is a form of Artificial Intelligence that can be utilized in many different capacities to generate human-like responses to user prompts. This tool uses machine learning to create conversations, poems, songs, written essays, code, and other forms of written text based on specific user prompts input into the system. While ChatGPT is not the first AI of its kind, it is one of the most powerful and accessible tools made [currently] freely available to the public.

Similar AI tools have been made available to the public in recent years, and there are more AI tools constantly emerging and evolving. ChatGPT is not the only AI tool that is being utilized in the world. Faculty can find information on similar AI tools at AI Tools Directory or Futurepedia.

How ChatGPT Can Be Used

As stated previously, ChatGPT uses machine learning to generate material for users. Not quite sure how that works? Check out this video for a quick overview of machine learning. ChatGPT can be used across multiple disciplines including but not limited to the following:

  • Mathematics
  • Writing
  • Coding
  • Music
  • Languages (English, Spanish, Chinese, French, etc.)

ChatGPT is made available via internet. To use the feature, users follow the below steps:

  1. Visit OpenAI ChatGPT’s website
  2. Click “Try ChatGPT”
  3. Log into your account or Sign Up to create an account
  4. Enter your name
  5. Click “New Chat” on the top left corner of the page
  6. Type in a prompt in the large text box, then hit “Enter”
  7. Users can continue improving responses by entering new, detailed information in the text box

Below is a small list of articles and conversations examining the different uses and experiences with ChatGPT across several categories and disciplines:

Concerns for AI and ChatGPT

Below is a list of articles and conversations that are being shared in academia that cover the concerns of ChatGPT in education.

General Advice

Below is a list of articles and conversations that are being shared with faculty regarding general advice for how to approach and navigate ChatGPT and other AI programs in education.

Teaching Our Students About AI

The use of artificial intelligence will continue to expand and grow for years to come, making AI an inevitable part of the workforce that many of our students will encounter and use after graduation. Therefore, many faculty are working to teach students how to effectively use AI in their careers, without forfeiting the need for, and importance of, foundational knowledge and skills. 

The below articles highlight the importance of teaching students how to use AI as well as how to teach practical skills, such as prompt literacy, for utilizing AI ethically and effectively:

Syllabus Statement Examples

Regardless of how faculty plan to approach ChatGPT or other AI tools in their courses, it is important that they provide clear communication to students on the parameters of using such resources for class assignments, studying, or other course materials. It is important to note and share with students that, currently, ChatGPT cannot always create a passable paper—having clear rubrics and guidelines for the course will help both students and faculty have clear expectations. There are many examples of syllabus language provided by fellow faculty both inside and outside of Texas State University.

Please see Sample Syllabus Statements below:

I. 

“Academic Honesty: The Texas State University Honor Code states, “We do our work and are honest with one another in all matters.  We understand how various acts of dishonesty, like plagiarizing, . . . conflict as much with academic achievement as with the values of honesty and integrity.”    

Plagiarizing is taking credit for work that is in any way not your own, including work generated by an artificial intelligence tool such as ChatGPT.  Refer to the First-Year English Syllabus and EasyWriter for definitions and general policies concerning plagiarism. Any cases of verifiable plagiarism, whether deliberate or accidental, will result in a failing grade on the assignment and may result in a failing grade for the course.  (Note:  Peer review and consultation with your instructor or a counselor at the Writing Center do not constitute plagiarism and are encouraged.)” – Sample statement provided by Dr. Nancy Wilson, Associate Professor, English – Texas State University

II.

“Treat ChatGPT like a fellow student in this class: 

  • Ask questions –do not copy the answers *
  • Ask for help –do not copy the code 1-1

In summary, you should not copy entire solutions as that is considered cheating – see penalties in the next slides.

Think of it as asking a student for help or copying the entire solution.

If in doubt copy and paste your code/response to a search engine or ChatGPT and look for the exact matches.” – Sample statement provided by Dr. Jelena Tešić, Assistant Professor, Computer Science – Texas State University and Dr. Vangelis Metsis, Associate Professor, Computer Science - Texas State University

III.

“Since writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills are part of the learning outcomes of this course, all writing assignments should be prepared by the student. Developing strong competencies in this area will prepare you for a competitive workplace. Therefore, AI-generated submissions are not permitted and will be treated as plagiarism.” - Sample statement shared by Chrissann Sparks Ruehle (with permission for others to use) on Higher Ed Discussions of AI Writing Facebook Group on 1/6/2023

IV. 

Example Academic Integrity Statement:

  • In this course, we value academic integrity and the importance of original work. It is essential that all assignments and work submitted reflect the genuine efforts and knowledge of each individual student. To maintain a fair and honest learning environment, it is necessary to address the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in completing assignments.

    AI technologies, such as language models and automated writing assistants, can be valuable resources for gathering information and enhancing learning. However, it is crucial to remember that the use of AI must align with the principles of academic integrity.

    While you may seek assistance from AI tools for research purposes, it is essential to acknowledge that the completion of assignments and assessments is intended as a personal endeavor. Therefore, any work submitted must be the result of your independent effort, utilizing your understanding, critical thinking, and creativity.

    Plagiarism, which includes submitting work generated wholly or in part by AI tools without proper citation or acknowledgment, is strictly prohibited. Any instances of unoriginal work, whether produced by AI or another source, will be considered a violation of academic integrity and subject to appropriate disciplinary actions.

    I encourage you to engage with the course materials, collaborate with your peers, and seek guidance from the instructor when needed. Embracing the learning process and demonstrating your own understanding through original work will not only contribute to your personal growth but also foster a genuine and meaningful academic environment.

    Remember, the goal of this course is not just to complete assignments but to cultivate your knowledge, skills, and abilities. By maintaining academic integrity and producing original work, you will enhance your learning experience and contribute to the overall academic community.

    If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of AI tools, academic integrity, or assignment expectations, please feel free to discuss them with me. Let us strive together to create an environment that promotes learning, integrity, and intellectual development. – Example statement from the Department of Biology, Austin Community College

V.

“Unless otherwise specified, the use of Automated Writing Tools, including chatGPT and similar artificial intelligence (AI) tools, is strictly prohibited in this course, even when properly attributed. The use of automated writing tools is considered plagiarism (as defined by SRRR 9.3) and will be handled in accordance with existing policy.

If you are allowing AI in some instances, it is recommended to add the following:

It is important to note that if AI tools like chatGPT are permitted to be used for an assignment, then they should be used with caution and proper citation. AI is not a replacement for your own thinking and research.” – Sample statement found on University of New Hampshire Syllabus Guidance page

VI.

Lance Eaton, Director of Digital Pedagogy at College Unbound, created a Google Doc comprised of classroom policies for AI generative tools from faculty across multiple disciplines and institutions. Lance has provided approval for faculty to view this document here.

Faculty can also find additional resources for creating syllabi in the above “General Advice” section or below:

VII.

There are many reliable places to get writing help, such as the campus Writing Center (free in person or online), Grammarly, your lab instructor, or your lab coordinator, which can all help you hone your writing skills by explaining why something is better written one way rather than another.

Using AI/LLMs like ChatGPT, LLaMa, etc. is appropriate in many cases, but not in this class (and is considered academic dishonesty, which results in a failing assignment & report to university).

  • If AI/LLMs write answers for you, you are not practicing and improving your writing skills or your ability to understand and explain scientific concepts, which are course objectives and the reason for these specific writing assignments.
  • If you ask AI/LLMs to re-write what you’ve already written, you are not learning to become a better writer because they don’t explain why something is better. - Sample statement provided by Dr. Rachel Davenport, Senior Lecturer, Biology, Texas State University 

VIII.

The Texas State University Honor Code states, “We do our own work and are honest with one another in all matters. We understand how various acts of dishonesty, like plagiarizing, . . . conflict as much with academic achievement as with the values of honesty and integrity.”

Plagiarizing is submitting work that is in any way not your own. Any cases of verifiable plagiarism, whether deliberate or accidental, will result in a failing grade on the assignment and may result in a failing grade for English 1310. (Note: Peer review and consultation with your instructor or a counselor at SLAC do not constitute plagiarism and are encouraged.)

You are a college student. You are enrolled at a university! You have the skills to succeed. Even if you are not personally paying for college, you are paying with your youth. Don’t short change yourself by cheating.

Lastly, I am not frightened by the use of AI/ChatGPT as a tool, but still want you to acknowledge that any idea not created by you and used, and not cited and sourced is essentially still plagiarism--even if its an artificial intelligence and not a person from which you are stealing.

Don’t do it! Trust yourself. - Sample statement provided by Rich Riddle, Graduate Teaching Assistant, English, Texas State University 

IX.

You are welcome to use AI / LLMs to help you with ideas, content flow, proof-reading etc. If you copy and paste anything, you must put it in quotes and cite it as you would any other source. (Citation instructions here.) You will find that just using AI will not be sufficient to earn a passing grade for many reasons: it often includes only superficial information (doesn’t dig very deep into the subject matter), it can be repetitive, it can have hallucinations (i.e., it can get things wrong, so be sure to fact check everything), and it can give inaccurate or made-up sources. Be cautious if you choose to use AI / LLMs. - Sample statement provided by Dr. Rachel Davenport, Senior Lecturer, Biology, Texas State University 

Plagiarism Policy, Academic Honesty, and AI Detection

Per the Honor Code Council on 1/23/2023:

As we begin the second week of the spring 2023 semester, we would like to briefly mention the developing topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and potential Honor Code implications that may arise if used by students in preparation of course deliverables submitted for academic credit.  Our institution, teaching and evaluation methods, and follow-on industry rely on the use of computers to assist with common work tasks every day.  However, when used in lieu of individual thought, creation, and synthesis of knowledge by falsely submitting a paper written (all or in part) as one’s own original work, an academic integrity violation results.

The Texas State University Honor Code addresses academic integrity violations related to the false submission of academic work for credit, including cheating and plagiarism (UPPS 07.10.01, Section 02.03).  Faculty are encouraged to develop expectations regarding the resources students may or may not use in completing assignments and communicate those expectations explicitly, and to address Honor Code policy violations with students if the potential for the use of AI-produced assignments exists.

As more information becomes available surrounding the use of AI in higher education (to include potential teaching methods to incorporate it as a learning tool and/or screening tools to identify AI-produced text) our team will continue to communicate how it relates to our institution’s Honor Code policy and expectations for upholding academic integrity in our courses.  In the meantime, we have identified a few resources to help faculty learn more about ChatGPT and related AI tools available via the internet:

In coordination with Faculty Development,  Honor Code Council members will continue to assist faculty with questions by providing additional updates, workshops/seminars, and other initiatives.  Faculty with concerns can always contact the Honor Code Council leadership by emailing honorcode@txstate.edu. 

 

AI-detection programs have worked to keep up with the continuous sophistication of AI, however, it is important to note that it is becoming increasingly difficult for AI detection programs to accurately detect AI. There are additional articles, conversations, and resources available for faculty who would like to curb possibilities of academic dishonesty. Faculty can find resources on the topic below:

Additional FAQs and Links to Resources

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