Learning to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools productively and responsibly is an important part of developing digital literacy. We want to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge to adapt and thrive in a changing world but it's important to understand when its use is inappropriate. Submitting assessments that aren't your original work can constitute a breach of academic integrity, which can include the use of generative AI.

What is generative artificial intelligence?

At the University, we define generative AI as a rapidly evolving class of computer algorithms capable of creating digital content – including text, images, video, music and computer code.

They work by deriving patterns from large sets of training data that become encoded into predictive mathematical models, a process commonly referred to as ‘learning’. These models do not keep a copy of the data they were trained on, but rather generate novel content entirely from the patterns they encode. People can then use interfaces like ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Claude or MidJourney to input prompt – typically instructions in plain language – to make generative AI models produce outputs.

We distinguish ‘automated writing tools’ from generative AI. Automated writing tools enhance or modify text by translating, paraphrasing, refining writing style, or clarifying expression. Automated writing tools do not include word processors or those that solely correct spelling and grammar. In contrast, generative AI technologies are those capable of creating new material. 

There are many AI-powered applications and tools that can be beneficial to your studies. Using AI responsibly involves ensuring these tools are used ethically, understanding their limitations, and maintaining a balance between technology and traditional approaches to learning. There are situations where using these tools may not be appropriate. It’s important for students to develop critical thinking, communication, and other skills (including written communication) and conduct independent research, rather than becoming overly reliant on AI tools.

Digital tools and generative AI in assessments

Digital tools, including generative AI, can only be used in the process of producing assessable work if your unit of study coordinator has expressly permitted their use for your whole class.

• The form of permission will differ depending on the unit, discipline, and other factors.
• Unit coordinators will inform you of what tools, if any, are permitted and what constitutes appropriate use.
• You must ensure you follow all policies such as the:
  • Academic Integrity Policy 2022 (pdf, 376KB)
  • Acceptable Use of ICT Resources Policy 2019 (pdf, 258KB)
  • Student Charter 2020 (pdf, 221KB).

Acknowledging and referencing the use of AI

If you are permitted to use automated writing tools or generative AI by your unit coordinator, you will need to include a statement in your submitted work explaining:

• that you have used AI tools in completing the work
• what automated writing or generative AI tools you have used
• how you have used them.

The unapproved use of automated writing tools or generative AI, or failing to acknowledge them, in assessable work is currently considered to be a breach of academic integrity, and penalties may apply.

If you’re unsure, it’s important that you speak with your unit coordinator to determine whether generative AI tools are permitted and how they can be used.

For more in-depth information about generative AI use, you should check the AI in Education Canvas site. It includes additional guidance on how to acknowledge and reference the use of generative AI.

Other considerations for AI

• We recommend against the use of AI for translation as it can reduce your learning ability for assessment task and may produce inadequate answers.
• You are welcome to use generative AI as a learning tool as long it isn't being used to produce work that you submit as your own. For example, you can use it to help explain complex topics or plan out your study. 
• You should not rely on the accuracy of generative AI outputs - generative AI models to not know anything but rather predict the words produced in a sentence. Generative AI outputs may include entirely false information, so you should be careful with using the outputs.
• You are responsible for the work that you submit. Alongside the accuracy of the outputs, these also reflect the biases of the material on which the models are trained. Always make sure that your work reflects your own values.  
• Don’t let use of generative AI prevent you developing crucial writing and communication skills - learning to communicate effectively in your own words, whether in written or spoken communication is an indispensable skill in any profession. Use generative AI to improve your communication skills rather than letting it do the writing or talking for you.

Accessing AI through University systems

The University provides free access to Copilot for Web for all students. Make sure that you log in with your UniKey using Okta so that you are using Copilot in protected mode, which introduces necessary guardrails within the system.

You shouldn't enter confidential, personal, proprietary or otherwise sensitive information into any generative AI platform. Examples of the information you should avoid entering include:

• a person’s name, birth date, address, identifying numbers or passwords
• other personal or health information
• copyright materials, such as the Library’s eResources and the University’s proprietary teaching resources.

Seeking further advice about generative AI

If you have further questions about how to use AI responsibly and productively, visit the Canvas site for AI in Education or contact the Office of Educational Integrity by emailing educational.integrity@sydney.edu.au.