With the recent rise in availability and popularity of AI generative tools such as ChatGPT, several university community members have expressed concern over their use. AI generative tools are a class of algorithms that generate new and unique outputs and have been in the news for their advanced natural language processing capabilities. They can generate human-like text and assist in tasks such as writing, research, and language translation. These tools can generate various types of content based on input data and parameters, including text, images, voice, music, computer code, etc.

Although AI tools like ChatGPT offer new possibilities for innovation in teaching and research and the U, they also present possible challenges.  As the availability of these tools increases, so does their usage by students to complete assignments, provide answers to tests, generate creative content, etc. While these tools may be used positively related to education, there is a concern that higher education institutions may see a rise in students using these tools to engage in academic misconduct without proper citation or attribution.

The University of Utah, in partnership with the Center for Teaching Excellence, is in the process of developing and revising policies regarding the use of these tools. The CTE has developed an AI Generative Tools resource page for instructors. We have communicated to students that the use of AI generative tools to misrepresent student work may represent academic misconduct and that if AI tools are used, they should follow guidance from faculty. If students choose to use these tools in some capacity related to student work, they must indicate which portion of the work is generated by the AI tool and which AI tool they used.

We know many faculty are very familiar with AI technology including ChatGPT and are actively designing courses and materials—as well as research—that embrace these new forms of information transfer.  Individual faculty members are encouraged to craft specific policies for using such tools for their courses. Please note that this is interim guidance as we continue to explore and understand the possibilities and challenges of these tools. The University of Utah is actively engaged in the national conversation around using AI tools in higher education. We will update our resources and policies as new information becomes available.  If you would like to be part of this conversation at the University of Utah, please click here to join CTE’s AI listserv.

Mitzi Montoya
University of Utah Provost