There’s much to learn about how to use AI in your classes and beyond. This manual will get you started with some key resources:
- Get some ideas about ways you can use AI
- A list of top links in the AI toolbox
- Learn how to become skilled at writing AI prompts
- There are important cautions to consider when using AI
- You can also use AI for college activities beyond your classes
- See how you measure up on basic tech skills and AI terminology
Ground rules for your classes
Every class has a syllabus that tells you about the plan for learning and the professor’s expectations. In most courses, professors will also include rules for using AI. Read the syllabus carefully and if AI isn’t mentioned, ask the professor about it right away.
Expect that AI policies will vary between professors, courses and even by projects and class assignments. Some faculty members will encourage or even require you to use AI, while others will prohibit it. Those decisions are based on the learning goals for the course. Keep track of the policies for each course and assignment so you don’t get confused.
Apply the highest ethical standards when using AI
Originality: Ensure all work submitted is your own, representing your unique voice and ideas. When permitted, you can use AI tools for help but not to do the work for you, unless your professor says it’s okay to use AI in a specific way.
Acknowledgment and attribution: Follow your professors’ and your institution’s rules for acknowledging or citing AI use. If you’re uncertain, ask about it. The APA and MLA both provide guidelines for citing generative AI work.
Data security and safety: Remember that any information you share with an AI tool is no longer private and may be used in ways you can’t control. Guard your data vigilantly – never share sensitive, personal or confidential information about yourself, others or your organization with AI systems.
Make sure you can answer “yes” to these questions
Before you start
- My school and my professor allow the use of the AI tools I’m considering for this assignment
- I clearly understand when and how I can use AI for this assignment
Doing the work
- I am using my own thoughts, words and tone of voice
- I have checked sources generated by AI and properly cited any facts, statistics or quotes
- I have critically analyzed the AI output and identified any false, biased or harmful information
- I have documented where and how I used AI and cited that use according to my professor’s expectations
- I have not used confidential, protected or copyrighted information
When the assignment is complete
- I can explain my findings and demonstrate full understanding without the aid of AI
- I can prove what sources I used and how I verified the information