3 things to know about AI and the Honor Code
Over the last year, AI tools have become more prevalent and a focus of conversation in academic and professional settings. Students need to understand when and how to use AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard without risking an Honor Code violation. Students, faculty and staff will need to continually adjust as AI tools evolve and become a part of our everyday lives.Ìý
Honor Code standards for AI useÌý
CU Boulder does not have a policy on AI in the curriculum because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to using AI tools on our campus. The goal is to empower students to use the appropriate innovative tools to be successful in their fields.Ìý
The guidelines around AI use allow faculty and instructors to determine how and when students can use AI for coursework. However, students are responsible for working with their professors to understand guidelines and clarify questions before using AI for coursework.Ìý
All students enrolled in a CU Boulder course are responsible for knowing and adhering to the Honor Code. The unapproved use of artificial intelligence could lead to a student gaining an unfair academic advantage, which is considered academic misconduct and could violate the Honor Code. Another potential violation of the Honor Code is plagiarism, which includes using paper writing services and technology, such as essay bots and other AI, whether paid or unpaid.Ìý
Clarify AI guidelines for each courseÌý
Students should ask their instructors any questions they may have about the expectations for their courses. This information may differ for each class, and asking for clarification can help avoid mistakes.ÌýÌý
Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (SCCR) recognizes that artificial intelligence can be used in unique and appropriate ways in education. SCCR encourages students to ask about standards and expectations specific to their course.ÌýÌý
However, the bottom line is for students to ensure they know how each professor allows students to incorporate AI tools into the course. If students have any uncertainty, they should ask before using AI.Ìý
Here are some questions your student may want to ask depending on the assignment:Ìý
- Are there specific AI tools or resources that are approved for this course or assignment?Ìý
- Can you provide an example of how we can use AI in this course or assignment?Ìý
- Should I include a section in my assignment explaining how I used AI tools to complete it?Ìý
- How should we cite sources when working with AI models?Ìý
The consequences of AI misuseÌý
Students who use AI in coursework outside of the standards for the course may face an Honor Code violation. Students found responsible for violating the Honor Code may be subject to resolution outcomes intended to help them reflect, learn and grow in their academic journey. Your student can review examples on the Resolution Outcomes webpage. Each Honor Code violation is determined on a case-by-case basis. Professors and instructors retain the sole authority to determine appropriate academic outcomes.Ìý
Resources to navigate the Honor Code and avoid violationsÌý
Students can access campus resources to find academic and other support.Ìý
Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)
ASAP links all first-year students and students living on campus to study resources and free peer tutoring.ÌýASAP also offers the Lending Library, allowing students to check out books for many general education and lower division classes.Ìý
Student Academic Success Center (SASC)
The Student Academic Success Center is a multicultural academic learning community serving low-income and first-generation college students with academic skills development, math and writing courses, supplementary instruction in gateway courses, tutoring, pre-collegiate opportunities and graduate research opportunities.Ìý
The Writing Center
The CU Boulder Writing Center is a free academic support service that offers writers from all academic disciplines and skill levels the opportunity to work one-on-one with professionally trained writing consultants.
Peer Wellness Coaching
Students who need help managing stress, creating a study routine or preparing for exams can meet one-on-one with a trained peer wellness coach to learn effective strategies and connect with campus resources. Coaching sessions are free and open to all CU Boulder students.
Disability Services
Students planning to use testing accommodations through Disability Services should ensure they’re on the same page as their instructors about the accommodation administration process. A dedicated access coordinator can help answer any additional questions or concerns.Ìý
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides mental health support for all CU Boulder students, including mental health screenings, drop-in hours, brief individual therapy, group therapy, workshops and crisis support.
Student Legal Services (SLS)
SLS helps students resolve or minimize their legal situations so they can focus on school. High-quality legal services are available for a fraction of the cost of a private attorney to all CU Boulder students who pay student activity fees.Ìý
Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)
SSCM connects students with campus partners, community resources and support systems to encourage success through individualized planning.Ìý
Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
SCCR provides support and resources to help students understand the impact of their behaviors and resolve conflicts. We balance accountability with education, with an emphasis on student growth and success.