Generative AI has been the most significant and disruptive technology to emerge in the last decade, but while its capabilities are remarkable, there are many ethical issues that come with it. This guide is intended to educate you on those issues so you can make an informed decision on how you use it, or if you even want to.
Regardless of your decision, always keep in mind the following:
Using an AI application in a way that is not permitted by your professor is a violation of SUNY Potsdam's academic code of honor, and can be considered cheating.
Currently, there is no single set of rules for AI usage at SUNY Potsdam. Each individual instructor decides how much, or how little, their students may use it. Usage will likely vary based upon subject field: an educational technology professor may encourage or even require its use, while a writing professor may forbid it. If you are ever unsure about what extent you are permitted to use AI in a class, always ask your professor.
It is important to note, however, that you are here in college to learn. If you rely too heavily on AI, you are effectively outsourcing your learning to it, and when you graduate, you won't have developed the skills, knowledge, and experience you will need in the professional world.
Most professors will likely require you to disclose all AI usage on your assignments. The following link will take you to a guide on how to cite AI-generated content in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles:
Citing ChatGPT & other Generative AI Platforms
Finally, always keep in mind that you are responsible for all AI content you include in any assignment. If ChatGPT generates false information that you use, blaming that false information on ChatGPT is not a valid excuse.
This article by Seline Angier for the Shorelight ESL service touches on a number of issues regarding student use of AI at the college level. Take a look--it will give you a lot of insight on why your professors may want to limit its usage in their classes.
Unless otherwise noted, the case studies in this guide were derived from USAID's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics Guide:
USAID. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics Guide. 9 July, 2023. https://www.usaid.gov/digital-development/ai-ethics-guide
