tables and chairs in a modern classroom

Artificial Intelligence, and particularly generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Dall-E, carry great potential to reshape the way we teach, learn and engage with knowledge. However, challenges and ethical considerations come with integrating these technologies into the classroom.

To ensure academic integrity, foster critical thinking skills and maintain a fair learning environment, faculty should clearly communicate their policies regarding the use of AI in their courses.

The following examples provide guidance on how to address generative AI in your syllabus, ranging from restrictive to permissive approaches, while prioritizing the development of students' authentic knowledge and skills. While faculty are not required to include an AI statement in their syllabi, it is strongly recommended. Feel free to adapt the suggested language for your specific class.

  • In accordance with UMass Lowell's commitment to academic integrity, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including but not limited to generative tools completing assignments, exams or any academic work in this course, is strictly prohibited unless explicitly stated otherwise. Any permitted use of AI must be clearly declared in the submitted work, detailing the AI tools used, the assistance received, and how this informed your final submission.

    This policy aims to ensure that students engage personally with the learning process, fostering the development of critical thinking, creativity and analytical skills essential for academic and professional success. Violations of this policy will be considered academic misconduct and will be subject to disciplinary actions as outlined in the university's Academic Integrity Policy.

    Students are encouraged to ask any questions or seek clarifications about the use of AI technologies in this course.

  • We prioritize academic integrity and the authentic demonstration of students' knowledge and skills. Consequently, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to generative technologies and similar platforms, is strictly prohibited in completing any coursework, assignments, quizzes, exams or any other form of assessment in this course.

    Violations of this policy will be considered academic misconduct and will be subject to disciplinary actions in line with the university's Academic Integrity procedures.

    This approach is taken to maintain a fair and equitable learning environment and to encourage the development of critical thinking, problem-solving and academic writing skills without reliance on AI-generated content.

  • AI can serve as a valuable resource for certain assignments, but its use should be approached with care. It's crucial to thoroughly assess and validate any information produced by AI if you decide to integrate it into your assignments.

    For assignments and projects, the final submission must predominantly reflect the student's original thought, analysis and synthesis of knowledge, even if informed by AI-generated content.

    All uses of GAI tools must be transparently cited, detailing the AI tools used, the assistance received and how this informed your final submission.

    Violations will be treated seriously, in line with the university's Academic Integrity procedures, underscoring the importance of responsible AI usage in academic endeavors. If you have any questions or concerns about using AI tools in this course, please consult with the instructor for guidance.

  • In this course, we recognize the potential of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools to enhance learning experiences and foster creativity. Students are encouraged to explore and utilize these tools responsibly to support their academic growth and develop new skills.

    When using GAI tools for assignments and projects, students must adhere to the following guidelines:

    • Use GAI tools for brainstorming, idea generation and preliminary research.
    • Critically evaluate and independently verify the information generated by AI to ensure accuracy and reliability.
    • The final submission must demonstrate the student's original thought, analysis and synthesis of knowledge, even if informed by AI-generated content.
    • All uses of GAI tools must be transparently cited, detailing the AI tools used, the assistance received and how AI informed your final submission.

    If you have any questions or concerns about using GAI tools in this course, please consult with the instructor for guidance.