Student use of artificial intelligence

Explore how students can use artificial intelligence to support their learning and not breach the expected behaviours of academic integrity.

The University wants students to have a good understanding of the ethics. And of the abilities, strengths, and weaknesses of Artificial Intelligence tools—especially generative AI tools.

About generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI)

When we talk about Gen AI we are generally referring to large language models such as ChatGPT, and image or video generation software that can be used to develop or manipulate materials. There are also apps which can help with your study, help summarise text, or connect literature.

Gen AI is typically trained on large data sets and presents patterns in written or visual communication. Gen AI doesn’t always know if what it is presenting is right or wrong, so many Gen AI tools can ‘hallucinate’, which means they can produce information that sounds believable but isn’t accurate.

Guidelines for student use of AI

The University has developed guidelines to help students use AI in a way that supports their learning and doesn’t breach the expected behaviours of academic integrity.

There are separate guidelines available for post-graduate students through the Faculty of Graduate Research.

It is your responsibility to know how you can, and cannot, use AI in your studies.

Learning is still important

There are some assignments that can, at least in part, be carried out by a Gen AI tool. However, part of your university learning experience is to develop important skills—critical thinking, deep analysis, creative thought—which AI cannot replicate.

In general, if you use an AI tool, this should be in support of your learning—not as a replacement for your learning.

Ask your course coordinator

Every assignment is different. Your course coordinator should make it clear what level of AI use is acceptable, and if you are not sure, ask.

If you are uncertain about asking, check in with a classmate or the class rep to see if they can ask.

If generative AI is permitted in your course, and you use it, you may need to acknowledge how you have used it. The Library has a guide to help ensure you are referencing your use of AI tools appropriately.

Different ways to use AI

We’ve outlined different ways you might use AI as part of your studies. The University is watching the development of improved artificial intelligence (AI) with the same fascination that many others have. We’re working hard to ensure that AI has a positive impact on learning, teaching and research, and on society in general so you’ll see an increasing use of AI in a variety of ways throughout your university career.

Your course coordinator will be able to provide more advice about if a particular approach is allowed.

Typically good uses:

consolidating notes which are written in your own words
generating questions to test your knowledge
checking your spelling, grammar, or tone
explaining complex concepts in simpler terms
creating study flashcards from your notes
breaking information into smaller, more manageable chunks
making learning accessible by turning information into audio or creating visual summaries.

Questionable uses:

planning an outline or argument—this may be part of the assignment process
creating sub-headings for an assignment task
creating a rubric for an assignment—this might be allowed if you have the lecturer’s permission
writing a reference list—AI tools can get this wrong; use EndNote instead
uploading and summarising articles
translating materials from other languages
using AI tools to summarise lectures could lead you to miss crucial learning outcomes.

Typically bad uses:

writing sections of your assignments
using AI to answer test questions
developing code when this is part of the learning
completing a literature review—this is an important part of learning
creating references for texts you haven’t read, or that don’t exist
using AI as a search tool (especially AI summaries at the top of web searches)
uploading or sharing material you don’t own or don’t have permission to use—such as your lecturer’s slides, notes, assignment briefs, or recorded classes—to an AI tool, which breaches intellectual property rights and may violate University policies
violating copyright—check before you upload anything to AI
relying on AI for advice—it can be biased and unreliable.

Consider keeping a log of how you use AI, which tools you use, which prompts are most helpful and how you use them.

Academic integrity at Te Herenga Waka

Using AI when it’s not permitted on a piece of work may breach ethical standards of academic integrity.

Breaching academic integrity standards is academic misconduct. This can have serious consequences for your study, and even your career. It’s not worth it. If you are unsure of the rules, check with your lecturer, or read through our guidance.

How to get support

If you're feeling stressed with your studies or unsure what to do, reach out to our student services for help, advice, or a confidential discussion. There are lots of resources and support available to you.

Te Taiako—Student Learning provides advice on how to use AI well.
Te Amaru—Disability Services supports students with disabilities.
The International Student Experience Team supports international students.
VUWSA’s advocacy team offers free, confidential and independent advice.

The ethics of Gen AI

There are many ethical questions surrounding Gen AI. This includes the amount of energy AI uses, as well as intellectual property and privacy concerns. Some Gen AI tools can create deepfake movies or images—or even copy the voice of someone you know. If you ever need support with such challenges, get in touch with the Tauria—Student Interest and Conflict Resolution Team.

You can learn more by attending a ‘Using AI ethically at university' workshop, run by Te Taiako—Student Learning.