Academic Integrity in the Age of AI at Park University

At Park University, the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Grammarly presents new challenges for maintaining academic integrity. Faculty must be vigilant in ensuring students use these tools ethically and transparently, avoiding plagiarism and unauthorized assistance.


 Detecting AI-Generated Content in Assignments

  1. Understanding How AI Tools Work
    AI writing tools generate content based on vast datasets and algorithms, which can lead to students using them to generate assignments without proper attribution. Faculty should be familiar with how these tools function to better detect their use.

    • Use Case at Park: A student may submit a well-written paper that seems beyond their usual capabilities. Faculty should be aware that AI tools could be responsible for such discrepancies.

  2. Using AI Detection Tools
    To detect AI-generated content, faculty can use specialized software designed to flag sections of text that may have been written by AI.

    • Example Tools: Turnitin (with AI detection), GPTZero.
    • Use Case at Park: Faculty could integrate AI-detection tools into the LMS, allowing automated checks for assignments suspected of being AI-generated. This can serve as a deterrent for students considering improper use of AI.


Creating Clear Guidelines for AI Use in Assignments

  1. Park University's Policy on AI Use
    Faculty should establish clear expectations regarding the use of AI tools for coursework, ensuring students understand when and how they are allowed to use AI.

    • Best Practice at Park: Instructors should include a section in their syllabi that outlines the acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI tools in their courses. For example, students may be allowed to use AI for proofreading but not for generating essays.

  2. Transparency and Citation of AI Tools
    When AI tools are permitted, students should be required to disclose their use and properly cite the tools.

    • Use Case at Park: A student who uses ChatGPT for brainstorming should note this in their assignment’s bibliography or as a footnote, just as they would with any other source.


Addressing Ethical Concerns and Promoting Academic Honesty

  1. Educating Students About AI and Plagiarism
    Faculty should provide guidance on the ethical use of AI tools, helping students understand the difference between using AI for assistance and outright cheating.

    • Best Practice at Park: Park University can organize workshops or online modules for students that explain academic integrity in the context of AI, reinforcing the university’s commitment to honesty and transparency.

  2. Fostering a Culture of Academic Integrity
    By promoting a culture of integrity, faculty can encourage students to use AI tools ethically, seeing them as supplements to learning rather than shortcuts.

    • Use Case at Park: Faculty could integrate discussions about the ethical use of AI into their classes, emphasizing the value of original thought and honest effort in academic work.


Upholding Academic Integrity in the AI Era at Park University

Faculty at Park University must stay ahead of AI trends to maintain academic integrity. By setting clear expectations, using AI-detection tools, and educating students, the institution can ensure that AI enhances learning rather than undermines it.