At Wesleyan University, the rapid advancement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) offers both promising opportunities and significant challenges within our academic community. While tools like Google Translate have already become a part of our educational landscape, the emergence of more sophisticated GenAI technologies necessitates a reexamination of our policies and practices.
Students are encouraged to approach the use of GenAI tools with a clear understanding of the boundaries set by their faculty. It is essential to review the course syllabus, collaboration policies, and learning objectives to ensure compliance with academic standards. Before incorporating AI into any assignment, students should seek explicit permission from their instructors and understand the limitations and proper citation practices. Unauthorized use of GenAI could be considered a violation of the Honor Code, especially if the work generated is not appropriately cited.
A team of faculty and staff recently drafted a Statement on the Use of AI in Academic Coursework, which the Office of Academic Affairs has encouraged all Wesleyan faculty to consider when teaching their courses this semester. In light of this new statement, we are encouraging all Wesleyan students to do the following:
For each of your classes/assignments, review the syllabus and/or assignment instructions for guidance around use of GenAI. Remember that each class will likely have different policies, as may different assignments in the same class.
Talk with your faculty members about the limitations, approved use, and how to appropriately acknowledge GenAI use early and often. Ask questions of your faculty members about the use of GenAI for all stages of your work process (brainstorming, researching, writing, revising, etc.). Let them know when you are confused.
Be aware of the presence of GenAI in various tools on which you may rely (e.g., Grammarly). Talk with your faculty about how you use these tools and help them understand how GenAI may already be a part of your workflow.
The use of GenAI tools does not mean that you have automatically violated the Honor Code. If you are going to use AI tools to complete your assignment, please make sure you have permission and remember to cite your work. If you don’t cite your work, you may be violating the Honor Code.
Finally, the library maintains a list of resources on Generative AI, located here and you can review the Honor Code here. We also encourage you to consult the Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence, produced by Elon University.
All the Best,
Kevin Butler,
Assistant Dean of Students/Director of Community Standards
Andrew White,
Caleb T. Winchester University Librarian