Ethical Considerations
Generative AI & Academics
While generative AI can be a useful tool for many different tasks, it is important to keep in mind some of the ethical questions the technology raises.
One of the most prominent arguments around generative AI is centered on how it collects copyrighted texts into its database without attribution. While some AI models do attempt to “cite” their sources, these citations vary wildly in accuracy. Students might be unaware of this, so it is important to discuss how these models generate text.
In addition, AI output can reproduce inaccuracies and biases embedded in training data or inserted by human prompts. This can be harmful to students who do not have the prior knowledge necessary to recognize these flaws.
It is also important to discuss the ethics of incorporating AI writing into student writing. While the ethics of this may seem obvious to some instructors, students might view AI writing as just another technology tool. If your field, discipline, or department has determined that AI writing violates their ethics, it is important to let students know why this is and what ethical use of AI looks like.
For some disciplines, it can be helpful to turn to prominent journals or the preferred citation format in your field for help. For example, both MLA and APA have guidelines for citing AI usage in academic work. By turning to these guidelines, instructors can show students that it is possible to use these AI tools in responsible ways. Additionally, many journals across disciplines now have specific frameworks in place for submitting work created with the help of AI. If you are designing an AI policy for your course, consider using the journals in your field as guidance. It can also be helpful to have a discussion with students about how the journals in your field are addressing AI usage. This conversation can help students understand the specific AI ethics your field has developed.