Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guide for CCSU: Introduction

• Guide: How to cite the use of AI 
• Policies: Statement on Use of AI & Academic Misconduct Policy for CCSU Students
• Video: Getting R.E.A.L About AI: How CCSU Students can Use AI Ethically for Research and Learning

POLICY STATEMENT ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AT CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY

August 26, 2024

Central encourages safe exploration and use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to further our teaching, learning, research, and other pursuits. Due to the rapidly changing nature of AI and its market, a standardized Artificial Intelligence policy is not sustainable in the long term, nor can it be applied uniformly in the diverse range of courses offered at Central. However, the use of Artificial Intelligence must adhere to our current University policies, including the Responsible Use of Data and Information Technology Resources Policy, and the Academic Integrity Policy within the Student Code of Conduct.

Faculty are asked to thoughtfully consider their stance on Artificial Intelligence use and communicate clear expectations to students on using generative Artificial Intelligence in their courses. All instructors are encouraged to update their syllabi to include guidance on the use of generative AI in their class. Establishing AI standards for your class allows you to have meaningful discussions with students on this topic. Being specific about how AI is or is not allowed makes the rules clear for students and faculty if there are academic integrity violations.

 Students should endeavor to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly to ensure compliance with Central’s requirements regarding Academic Integrity but also to ensure their own mastery of course material and personal development. It is imperative that students review the syllabus statements and expectations for each class so that they are aware of what, if any, permissible uses of AI exist in each of their respective courses. Students should remember to act ethically with AI and that they are 100% responsible for the output used. Student should remember to be transparent and document/cite their usage of AI. Students, Faculty, and Staff are encouraged to read and understand the terms of service of various AI and AI-enabled tools that they use.  Some tools may assert retention of materials submitted or make claims of ownership of intellectual property.  When students are in doubt about the use of AI in any course, they reach out to their professors.

 The potential and opportunity that Artificial Intelligence provides is exciting for our Central community. However, we must proceed with careful consideration and understanding of how we are using Artificial Intelligence, where our information is going and whether we are using it within the required University framework.

 - On behalf of the Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence

CCSU librarians who co-instruct LSC160: Information Exploration in the AI Era adapted an open educational resource to help everyone build their AI literacy. Known as Information Exploration in the AI Era: AI Literacy 101, it's housed on the CCSU hub of the GoopenCT Open Educational Resources repository.