What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
A universally accepted definition of artificial intelligence (AI) is that it is a machine-based system that uses inputs to make inferences about how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can affect physical or virtual environments. Common applications of AI include search engines like Google, entertainment streaming platforms like YouTube and Netflix, and even the autocomplete feature when we text.
Who do I ask if I have questions about using AI for assignments?
You should consult your course syllabus and instructor's announcements to determine what the AI policies are for your course (different instructors will have different policies). You should reach out to your course instructor with any questions about using AI for assignments.
Can I use AI to help me with my schoolwork, to create art for class, or to generate other items I will be submitting?
You should consult your course syllabus and instructor's announcements to determine what the AI policies are for your course (different instructors will have different policies). If you have questions about your course’s policies, ask your course instructor.
Is it cheating to use AI on tests or papers?
You should consult your course syllabus and instructor's announcements to determine what the AI policies are for your course (different instructors will have different policies). If you have questions about using AI for tests and papers, ask your course instructor.
Why do different instructors have different policies for using AI? Why can’t there be one policy for all classes?
Southern New Hampshire University honors the ideal of academic freedom. This means professors can choose what topics they teach and how they teach them without unnecessary restrictions from the university or government.
AI is a tool and a resource like any other, such as a textbook, an assignment, or an activity. The instructor has the right to decide if the use of it matches the course objectives, learning outcomes, and desired skills building.
Do I have to cite AI if I use it?
First, you need to be certain if AI is allowed for what you are using it for. Consult your course syllabus and your instructor to determine what the course policy is for using AI (different instructors will have different policies).
If the course policy allows you to use AI and the policy requires that you cite AI, you can get the most current citation formatting by visiting Shapiro Library’s Citation and Artificial Intelligence Research Guide.
What happens if I break the rules on AI use?
It is important to understand that SNHU is committed to fostering an ethical and intellectual environment. The university holds its students to standards of academic integrity with the expectation that all aspects of a student’s educational path are conducted with the highest degree of integrity, accountability for one’s own work, and respect for the intellectual property of others.
Using AI to complete coursework when it is not allowed can be treated as a violation of SNHU’s Academic Integrity Policy. Consult the Student Handbook for information about the Academic Integrity Process.
How do professors know if I used an AI tool when I wasn’t supposed to?
It is important to understand that SNHU is committed to fostering an ethical and intellectual environment. The university holds its students to standards of academic integrity with the expectation that all aspects of a student’s educational path are conducted with the highest degree of integrity, accountability for one’s own work, and respect for the intellectual property of others.
A professor might notice a change in style or voice in your work that could be explained by you having used an AI tool. They may also notice inconsistencies in the assignment's content. Instructors may not submit student work to unauthorized, third-party tools or services.
The university recommends that any academic concerns should first be addressed between the student and their instructor in a collegial manner to resolve any concerns. Given our commitment to an ethical environment, it is expected that students will answer their instructor’s questions with honesty and integrity.
When situations like these occur, it is recommended that professors submit an academic integrity referral to the Community Standards team. The team has tools and processes to investigate allegations of academic misconduct. Consult the Student Handbook for information about the Academic Integrity Process.
What if my writing sounds too much like AI - could I get in trouble?
The university recommends that any academic concerns should first be addressed between the student and their instructor in a collegial manner to resolve any concerns.
Can professors use AI in their classes?
If a professor thinks that using AI as a tool in their classes can assist with meeting course objectives and student learning outcomes, then they have the right to use it so long as they adhere to the standards set forth in university guidelines.
Do the rules apply to all students equally?
The Academic AI Guidelines apply to all SNHU students equitably—both at the campus location and online. The guidelines are equitable in that there can be circumstances in which students with documented accommodations to use generative AI will be allowed to do so even though a course policy prohibits the use.
Who decides what the AI rules are?
The Academic AI Guidelines were created by a group of university stakeholders including Academic Programs, Academic Quality, Accreditation and Support, Community Standards, Learning Sciences and Assessment, Office of General Counsel and Compliance, Office of Knowledge Management, Office of University Registrar, SNHU AI, and Student Experience Support Services. The guidelines are representative of standing university policies, state and federal laws and regulations, and accreditation standards.