Being transparent with students about an assignment’s purpose can help them appreciate what and why they are learning. Consider discussing the ways that having core knowledge in a field makes their use of AI more powerful, so they understand the value of that learning even with access to these tools in future work.
28Jul’26
Your students may encounter different expectations around AI use in each of their classes, so it is important to help them understand your course policies.
To help students access this information, include your AI policy and overall academic integrity policies in your syllabus and on Canvas. It can also help students if you address it in class at the start of the semester and when introducing a new assignment, especially if guidelines for acceptable use vary between assignments.
Discuss the purpose and value of the assignment
Articulate the value of the learning process
Fear of making mistakes can tempt some students to turn to AI. Consider how you might reinforce the value of learning from errors and working through complex problems.
Course policies and grading practices that emphasize the importance of the learning process can show students that you value their thinking in addition to the final product and encourage them to make thoughtful decisions about when and why they consult AI for help.
Explain how students can get academic support
Academic dishonesty, including through unacceptable AI use, is frequently the result of students feeling unable to keep up with their work.
Remind students of ways to get help if they are struggling in your course, such as office hours, Weingarten’s academic support, or the Marks Family Writing Center. Structured flexibility around due dates or resubmission policies may make students less tempted to turn to AI-related shortcuts.
CETLI Can Help
CETLI staff are available to discuss ideas or concerns related to generative AI and your teaching, and we can work with your program or department to facilitate conversations about this technology. Contact CETLI to learn more.