What is generative AI?
Generative AI explained in two minutes.
| PROS of GenAI | CONS of GenAI |
| Can provide personalized learning support 24/7 | Has the potential to compromise privacy and collect data without authorization |
| Can reduce your workload | Can generate incorrect information, produce biased content, and has limited ability to perform calculations |
| Provides immediate feedback and/or prompt results | Does not have access to real-time (current) data and information |
| Improves accessibility for students with learning disabilities or English language learners who require translation support | Lacks both the emotional intelligence and empathy needed to support inclusive interpersonal relationships |
| Can summarize information, simplify language, and differentiate content | Increases the potential for plagiarism and academic dishonesty |
Adapted from World Economic Forum (2024) and Samala et al. (2024)
To Use or Not to Use…
There are times when it will be appropriate to use generative AI to improve your learning and content retention. Prior to using GenAI, you should have a clear understanding of course policy. Every instructor will outline their policies for AI use in the course syllabus. Permissions for AI use will vary depending on the subject matter and the policies of each individual department and faculty. If you are unsure about whether AI use is permitted for a given assignment, test, or task, it is your responsibility to clarify the guidelines with your course instructor.
Additionally, the following flowchart can help you decide whether it is appropriate to use GenAI:
Tiulkanov, A. (2023)
Tips to Avoiding a Breach of Academic Integrity
Ensure that your citations are accurate.
For style guides: https://concordia.ab.ca/library/help/citation-guides/
For GenAI citation: https://libguides.bcit.ca/AI/citing-genai
Citation support is offered at no cost through CUE’s Library Services. This can be accessed virtually or in person. https://concordia.ab.ca/library/help/ask-a-librarian/
Students who manage their time well are less likely to become stressed and therefore less likely to engage in dishonest practices. Start your research and writing early and review course content after every class. If you are struggling to meet deadlines, consider increasing the amount of time you dedicate to your studies or seek out support from CUE’s Learning Services. https://concordia.ab.ca/student-services/student-life-learning/learning-services/
Students who attend class regularly achieve greater success on assignments and are better prepared for exams. When you attend class faithfully, you are showing your instructor that you take coursework seriously and that you are willing to put in the effort to do well. While in class, limit distractions, participate in discussions, take effective notes, and do not be afraid to ask questions.
Take advantage of the free writing supports offered by CUE’s Writing Centre. Appointments are easy to book on The Writing Centre’s webpage. https://concordia.ab.ca/student-services/student-life-learning/learning-services/the-writing-centre/
In addition to The Writing Centre, CUE offers students free access to tutoring. Appointments can be booked using the following link: https://concordia.ab.ca/student-services/student-life-learning/learning-services/tutoring-and-registry/
Academic Integrity Checklist
Prior to submitting an assignment, use one of the checklists below to ensure that your work meets CUE’s guidelines for academic integrity:
References
Beaulieu, E. & Pettit, A. (n.d.). Academic integrity student checklist. University of Ottawa. https://www2.uregina.ca/academic-integrity/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Academic-Integrity-Student-Checklist-UOttawa.pdf
Centre for Teaching Support & Innovation. (n.d.). Sample Academic Integrity Checklist. Academic integrity and the role of the instructor. University of Toronto. Retrieved May 2, 2024. https://teaching.utoronto.ca/resources/academic-integrity-and-the-role-of-the-instructor/
Samala, A.D., Zhai, X., Aoki, K., Bojic, L., & Zikic, S. (2024). An in-depth review of ChatGPT‘s pros and cons for learning and teaching in education. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, 18(2), 96-117, https://www.researchgate.net/deref/https%3A%2F%2Fdoi.org%2F10.3991%2Fijim.v18i02.46509?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6Il9kaXJlY3QiLCJwYWdlIjoicHVibGljYXRpb24ifX0
Student Resources. (n.d.). Academic integrity. York University.
Tiulkanov, A. (2023, January 19). Is it safe to use ChatGPT for your task? LinkedIn. https://lnkd.in/eeZ5YNJh?trk=public_post-text
World Economic Forum. (2024, January 18). AI and education: Kids need AI guidance in school. But who guides the schools? Education and Skills. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/01/ai-guidance-school-responsible-use-in-education/
York University. (2013). Academic integrity checklist. SPARK Student Papers & Academic Research Kit. https://spark.library.yorku.ca/wp-content/themes/glendonits-spark-20151125/resources/Academic_Integrity_Checklist.pdf