Student use of artificial intelligence
Explore how students may use artificial intelligence in a way that supports their learning and doesn’t breach the expected behaviours of academic integrity.
At Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, we are watching the development of improved artificial intelligence (AI) with the same fascination that many others have.
Guidelines for student use of AI
The University has developed the following guidelines to help students use AI in a way that supports their learning and doesn’t breach the expected behaviours of academic integrity.
It is your responsibility to know how you can, and cannot, use AI in your studies.
Understand what AI is
AI is the simulation of human intelligence by computers. It does this through recognising patterns but does not ‘think’ in the way we understand thinking.
Many of us use AI in our day-to-day life, but these tools are rapidly evolving. This includes using Google search, ChatGPT, digital assistants like Siri, image creation software, and assistive technology like text-to-speech software.
There are also plenty of apps that support academic work too—like SciSpace Copilot, which helps translate texts into plain English.
Consider how you are using AI
When used well, AI can be a great tool to support your learning. It can help you develop ideas, translate languages, generate images, create a waiata, or summarise texts. AI stops being a good idea when you are not learning, and the AI is doing too much of the work.
Remember that using AI when it’s not permitted on a piece of work might breach the ethical standards of academic integrity.
Get to know the AI tools available
AI technology can help make learning more accessible. Take time to consider what tools you are using so that you can use the right tool for the right process. Some AI can support writing or the rapid development of artifacts in the creative disciplines, while others can help you summarise ideas or test your knowledge. There’s also AI specifically designed to help support you if you have additional learning needs.
Take time to understand expectations around the use of AI
Expectations may vary from course to course or even from assignment to assignment. This may include rules around how you can or can’t use AI, and what kinds of AI it is acceptable to use. For example, it might be ok to use translation software, but not generative AI like Chat GPT. Your course coordinators should make it clear when you can and cannot use AI, and if there are any limitations on how you use it. If you’re not sure, just ask.
You may also wish to review our Generative Artificial Intelligence Policy for more information.
Acknowledge when you do use AI
If generative AI is permitted in your course, and you use it, acknowledge how you have used it. See library referencing guides here.
Understand the limitations of AI tools
Sometimes AI may produce inaccurate or biased content—this can include imaginary ideas and inaccurate or outdated data. Generative AI like ChatGPT has “hallucinations” so it can’t be relied on to generate high-quality summaries or text. Different AI tools will have different strengths and limitations, for example, ChatGPT is not a search engine. Users of AI all need to become critical users of AI and understand what the AI can and can’t do well.
Supporting you to use AI ethically
There is a range of resources available to students to help understand how AI can be used at Te Herenga Waka:
- Student Learning host ‘Using A.I. Ethically at the University’ workshops. Sign-up online.
- Read the full AI guidelines for students.
Watch this space
We’ll keep developing guidance and support for students on how to use AI well. If you have concerns about this or want to add something, please email stella.mcintosh@vuw.ac.nz or robert.stratford@vuw.ac,nz.