Artificial Intelligence: AI and Assignments

Using Generative AI Tools in College Assignments:

You may already be familiar with generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Check out the list of useful AI Platforms in this LibGuide here. It is essential however to understand the limitations and benefits associated with these tools to ensure that you use them responsibly and effectively, (see the Limitations and Benefits sections of this LibGuide). When using AI to support assignment preparation, here are some key points to consider:

Academic Integrity

• Consult with your lecturers to determine if they permit the use of AI tools for assignments
• Refer to page 6 of IADT's Academic Integrity Policy for guidelines on the use of AI
• Prioritise IADT Library's print and online collections when searching for information to obtain high-quality academic information. AI platforms generate or retrieve information of variable quality and reliability. Check out a short video below on Searching Library Collections Using Discovery below.
• Do not use AI to generate assessments or to plagiarise information sources.
• Always cite when consulting AI tools
• Respect copyright and intellectual property rights when using AI. 

Accuracy and Quality

Content generated by AI tools may lack accuracy, as these systems rely on patterns from existing data without conducting fact-checking. Consequently, AI can inadvertently spread misinformation and may produce fabricated references, a phenomenon known as "hallucination." Ensure that you verify references against IADT Library databases or Google Scholar.

AI tools typically access only openly available articles, potentially missing high-quality academic sources behind paywalls. Moreover, many AI systems may draw from non-academic or low-quality research. It is important that you critically assess the sources generated by AI. A valuable method for evaluating the quality of AI-generated information is the CRAAP Test, which examines the Currency, Reliability, Accuracy, Authority, and Purpose of the information provided. Watch the video on the CRAAP test below. 

While AI tools can enhance information access and content creation, they also pose significant risks related to misinformation. There is no substitute for searching IADT Library collections, both print and online, to ensure the reliability of academic sources that you use in your assignments. See video on searching the library below.

Data Sharing

When using some AI tools, the data you input becomes public, effectively sharing your work and intellectual property online. Do not enter personal data into AI platforms due to privacy and security concerns.

College assignments can be challenging. AI can be a valuable tool to help you tackle various tasks. Here are some ways AI can assist you without compromising academic integrity:

Understanding the Assignment Question

AI can help you break down the different elements and components of the assignment question, ensuring you provide a comprehensive answer. This can be particularly useful for complex or ambiguous questions.

Brainstorming Ideas

AI can assist with brainstorming, helping you generate ideas and organize your thoughts. This can be especially helpful when you're feeling stuck or unsure of where to start.

Simplifying Complex Concepts

AI can help you break down complex concepts into more manageable parts. This can be valuable when dealing with difficult course material or advanced topics.

Creating an Assessment Outline

AI can produce an outline as a guide, ensuring your essay addresses all parts of the assessment and covers the key concepts. However, it's crucial to use AI responsibly and ensure that your work remains original and academically sound.

McMaster Libraries (2021)  How Library Stuff Works. How to evaluate information sources. Youtube. https://youtu.be/_M1-aMCJHFg?si=BMNIHr668bzJANba

Curtin University (2024) Developing Critical Thinking on AI Generated Media. Youtube. https://youtu.be/CLI1gRFKPGc?si=VqSf06JsG1CPBWp7