AI guidelines for the classroom

Introduction

AI has been rapidly proliferating into academia, confounding educators on how best to respond to this new change. The distinction between genuine learning and outsourcing work has become blurry. A method of clear delineation is necessary as educators need to ensure programs such as ChatGPT are not undermining the learning process. Eliminating AI from the education process is not practical, thus educators need clear rules and guidelines. To address this challenge, Zero Cheating advocates for using preexisting paradigms for integrating AI into the education process. First, AI can be treated like a tutor. Second, AI policy can follow standard citation rules for externally authored content. By applying existing guidelines to AI tools, schools can confidently maintain academic integrity during this new epoch.

Treat AI Like a Tutor

Schools have long-established rules and guidelines for tutors and writing centers. These protocols are designed to support student learning while maintaining the integrity of their work. The same principles can be applied to AI tools. Here’s how:

1. Clear Boundaries: Just as tutors help students understand concepts without doing the work for them, AI tools should be used to aid comprehension and provide guidance. Schools should define what constitutes acceptable use, ensuring AI serves as a supportive resource rather than a means to complete assignments.
2. Transparency: Tools like ChatGPT allow users to share chat conversations, enabling educators to clearly understand the impact of AI. This transparency empowers teachers and administrators to verify students are adhering to the rules, fostering a culture of honesty and accountability.

Citing AI-Generated Content

AI-generated content can be treated like published material. When students use AI tools to generate text, they should cite these sources appropriately following the same general existing guidelines for published materials. Proper citation acknowledges the use of AI while ensuring academic integrity. Although formal citation rules are not developed yet, students can use the ChatGPT conversation link in the references enabling educators to verify the source.

Implementing Guidelines in the Classroom

To effectively integrate AI tools into the classroom, schools can follow these steps:

1. Develop Clear Policies: Review existing guidelines and polices for tutors and writing centers. Leveraging these policies as a baseline, adjust as needed for ensuring AI is enhancing and supporting the learning process, not replacing it.
2. Educate Students and Faculty: Conduct workshops and training sessions to inform both students and faculty about the proper use of AI tools. Emphasize the acceptance of AI while simultaneously stressing the importance of transparency and proper citation to uphold academic standards.
3. Monitor and Confirm: Review students’ shared AI conversations and conduct discussions as needed to ensure genuine learning is continuing. This process enables schools to create a transparent and accountable learning environment.

Conclusion

By treating AI like a tutor and applying existing guidelines for tutors and published content, educational institutions can harness the power of AI while maintaining academic integrity. Clear policies, education, and monitoring are key to successfully integrating AI into the classroom. At Zero Cheating, we are committed to helping schools navigate this new landscape, ensuring that AI enhances the learning experience rather than undermining it.

For more information on how Zero Cheating can support your institution in implementing these guidelines, visit our website www.zerocheating.com.