For clarification and guidance on the use of ChatGPT and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools in our graduate education programs, CGHS has developed the following position statement:
AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard, Claude) may be used to facilitate the student learning experience and enhance overall productivity when used appropriately and ethically. CGHS recognizes there are potential benefits for students in their academic and professional endeavors. Whether in research, brainstorming content, problem-solving, or any other academic pursuit, AI tools can offer valuable insights and assistance.
Generative AI also inevitably has some drawbacks. The overuse or reliance on AI tools can potentially dilute students' critical thinking skills and hinder their creativity. The automation provided by AI tools can lead to surface-level engagement with academic content, which may prioritize assignment completion over deep learning. Concerns also arise in terms of authentic authorship of student work and the true source of content, thus raising concerns about misuse of sources and plagiarism. Additionally, there is a risk of spreading misinformation and biased content through AI. Generative content is not necessarily accurate content, so students should assess and review all outputs of AI with a critical eye.
Clearly, there are both expressed benefits of AI usage and important concerns about its threat to academic integrity in academia. Within CGHS, students are expected to adhere to the following principles:
- Transparent and Ethical Usage: When AI use is allowed by the instructor, students are encouraged to use AI tools transparently and ethically. Any use of AI-generated content should be acknowledged and properly cited just like any other external source. This applied to any final work submitted for grading or credit, including written assignments, discussion posts, presentations, and projects.
Note: Individual faculty instructors may set their own policies regarding the use of generative AI tools in their courses, including allowing or disallowing various uses of such tools. Faculty will communicate such policies to students. Students who are unsure of policies regarding generative AI tools are encouraged to ask their faculty instructors for clarification.
- Exploration and Critical Thinking: While AI tools offer support, students are urged to approach their learning with curiosity, critical thinking, and independent exploration. AI should serve as a supplement to intellectual growth rather than a replacement for genuine engagement with the subject matter.
- Content Accuracy and Responsibility: While AI tools are valuable in assisting with content organization or brainstorming, students remain responsible for the accuracy, credibility, and authenticity of the content they produce. This includes validating information, fact-checking, and ensuring references and citations are precise and appropriate (How to Cite ChatGPT - APA).
- Originality Assurance: All work submitted for grading is presumed to be the original work of the student unless explicitly cited and identified as AI-generated or sourced from other external references. If any uncertainty arises regarding adherence to the aforementioned guidelines, students are encouraged to engage in proactive communication with their professors prior to submitting their work. Students are responsible for ensuring accuracy of content produced, including references and citations.
- Guarding Against Academic Dishonesty and Protecting Academic Integrity: Improper attribution or unauthorized use of AI-generated content is a form of academic dishonesty and subject to the CGHS Plagiarism Policy and/or the University Code of Academic Conduct. Plagiarism or the misuse or misrepresentation of sources, in any form, is strictly prohibited. Students are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity in all their work.
- Continuous Dialogue: CGHS faculty and administration encourage an open dialogue between students, professors, and administrators regarding the use of AI tools. Questions, concerns, and discussions about the ethical implications and best practices of AI integration are welcomed.
Note: This position statement will be reviewed on a regular basis and updated as technology evolves.
December 2023
