AI and the Honor Code: 3 things to know
Curious about using AI tools like ChatGPT in your classes? You're not alone! As AI becomes part of everyday life, students, faculty and staff are figuring out how to use it in smart and ethical ways.Ìý
That includes staying true to CU ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß’s Honor Code, which is all about academic integrity and personal responsibility.Ìý
So, as you head into the semester, here are three important things to know about using AI tools in your coursework.Ìý
1. Learn about Honor Code standards for AI useÌýÌý
Right now, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all policy on AI in curriculum, because every course and professor might approach AI tools differently. The goal is to help you learn how to use innovative tools like ChatGPT in ways that support your success, not replace your work.Ìý
Here’s what that means for you:Ìý
ÌýÌýYour professors set the rules. Each instructor decides if, when and how AI can be used in their class. It’s up to you to ask questions and make sure you understand their expectations before using any AI tools for assignments.Ìý
ÌýÌýThe Honor Code still applies. Using AI without permission—especially if it gives you an unfair academic advantage—is considered cheating. That includes things like having AI write your paper or using essay bots (free or paid) without approval.Ìý
ÌýÌýPlagiarism is still plagiarism. Whether it’s copying from a website or using AI to generate content, passing off someone else’s work as your own violates the Honor Code.Ìý
2. Clarify AI guidelines for each courseÌýÌý
Not sure if you can use AI in a class? Just ask your instructor. Every course might have different expectations when it comes to using tools like ChatGPT or other AI. If you're ever unsure, the best move is to check in with your instructor before using AI for any assignments. It’s a simple way to avoid mistakes and stay on the right side of the Honor Code.Ìý
Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution recognizes that AI can be a helpful and creative tool in education. But it must be used the right way—and that depends on your course and your professor’s guidelines.ÌýÌýÌý
3. Be aware of the consequencesÌý
If you use AI tools in a way that doesn’t follow your course’s guidelines, it could lead to an Honor Code violation. And while that might sound intimidating, CU ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß’s approach is about helping you learn from mistakes.Ìý
Here’s what to keep in mind:Ìý
ÌýÌýViolations are handled case-by-case. If you're found responsible for breaking the Honor Code, you may go through a resolution process designed to help you reflect, learn, and grow in your academic journey. Review examples of resolution outcomes.Ìý
ÌýÌýProfessors decide academic outcomes. Your instructors have the final say on what happens academically if a violation occurs in their class.Ìý
Bottom line: know the rules, ask questions and use AI responsibly. It’s all part of learning how to navigate new tools with integrity.Ìý
Find supportÌý
CU ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß offers a wide variety of tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success.Ìý
Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)Ìý
ASAP offers peer tutoring and study resources to all first-year students and students living on campus. ASAP also offers the Textbook Lending Library, allowing students to check out books for many general education and lower division classes.Ìý
Disability ServicesÌý
If you’re planning to use testing accommodations through Disability Services, make sure you’re on the same page as your instructors about how they’ll be administered. Your dedicated access coordinator can help answer any additional questions or concerns.ÌýÌýÌý
The Writing CenterÌý
The CU ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß 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.ÌýÌýÌý