Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Reminders and Guidance for Students

Sept. 26, 2023
 
Dear Students,
 
As you settle into the fall semester, we want to share important reminders and guidance about the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in your coursework and research. The information below was put together by experts across campus to help you as you assess the use of this technology in your academic studies and research.
 
Generative AI Reminders and Guidance

•  Ask before you use AI and check your syllabus and assignment guidelines. Many instructors are providing specific guidance about appropriate use of generative AI in their courses. If you do not know whether your use of generative AI is appropriate to the outcomes in your course or research activities, tell your instructor or supervisor what you are considering and ask for guidance. Do this well in advance of your deadlines, not after you have submitted your work.
• Remember that academic and research integrity are a core part of your experience as a student. Disclosing your research methods, using proper citations when incorporating other’s work, and contributing original intellectual work as an author are central tenets for ethical scholarly work. As an author, you take full responsibility for your writing and the evidence supporting it, including attribution of sources such as generative AI. It should be used as a resource to facilitate your learning, not a replacement for your education.
• Just like personal items, keep your data safe - and beware of scams. Do not provide personal information about yourself or others that is not public, and always follow MSU’s data guidance. If you use AI, be sure to use reputable, recognized sources, and never share your credentials with a third party, no matter how legitimate they may seem.
  Know the potential risks and limitations of AI outputs. Results might include misinformation, inaccuracies, bias, or inappropriate or unintentionally harmful content. 

Throughout the year, we will be engaging in thoughtful conversations with the MSU community and experts about the ethical use of these new technologies in ways that align with the university’s mission and values. We will continue to share additional guidance and reminders as those conversations progress. We look forward to learning and using these new technologies in scholarly, equitable, and ethical ways.
 
Sincerely,
 
Thomas D. Jeitschko, Ph.D. (he/him)
Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
 
Mark A. Largent, Ph.D. (he/him)
Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education
 
Pero G. Dagbovie, Ph.D. (he/him)
Vice Provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
and Dean of the Graduate School