STATEMENT ON USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RESOURCES:
Artificial intelligence (AI) programs include machine learning/large language models such as ChatGPT and CoPilot, image editors such as DALL-E and research publication summarizing systems like Elicit. If used correctly, openly and critically, AI systems can sometimes be useful as one tool in a multi-step writing process for composing assigned coursework. Such use should increase your critical thinking skills, not substitute for them. Since AI systems can produce inaccurate, incomplete and biased output, using these systems will require a heighted level of critical review. Use of AI programs must conform to the academic integrity policy of the Downstate HSU campus, of your college/school and – most importantly – to the learning objectives and assignment rules defined by your course’s instructor. Learning to develop critical thinking skills and responsible evaluation of sources can be impeded by indiscriminate use of AI to ‘write it for you’. Instructors at Downstate use a variety of plagiarism detection tools that can detect AI in your submission. Note that tools such as Grammerly have incorporated AI; consult with your instructor before using writing tools. Here is some general guidance on using AI.
- Is AI use allowed in your course? Check your course syllabus for a statement on whether AI is allowed, and if so, how it can be used. If you do not find a statement in the syllabus, email your instructor to request clarification.
- Document your use of AI: Submit the name and the URL(s) of the AI system(s) that you used, why you used it/them, and a copy of the prompt(s) and output as part of your submission. Failure to do so will be considered a violation of the campus academic integrity policy.
- Is the output “wrong”? Check the output for:
- inaccurate statements/falsehoods
- “Made-up” sources, statements
- Biased and offensive output including racist, sexist or politically extremist views.
- Think critically about the output:
- Discuss the output with your instructor.
- Was it incomplete in covering the topic?
- Were there parts that were “hallucinations”, biased or inaccurate?
- How and why did you alter or enhance your prompt questions to guide the system?