Creating an AI Policy for Schools: Guidelines and Resources
AI Policies in Schools: Navigating the Rise of AI-Generated Content
When ChatGPT hit the web in the fall of 2022, jaws dropped across the globe. Suddenly, AI chatbots had gone from laughable to impressive—and a little bit scary. People began predicting that AI would kill education as we know it (we promise that it won’t). Teachers worried that students would use AI to do their homework and write their essays. And schools realized that it was probably time to add an official AI policy to their handbooks.
Understanding AI-Generated Content
Not entirely sure what AI-generated content is? Let’s ask ChatGPT itself! AI-generated content refers to any form of digital content, such as text, images, videos, or audio, that is created by artificial intelligence systems without direct human intervention. These AI systems use advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to generate content that mimics human creativity and decision-making processes. While AI-generated content has the potential to improve efficiency and creativity in various fields, it also raises ethical concerns related to plagiarism, copyright infringement, bias, and misinformation.
Why Schools Need an AI Policy
Schools need to create AI policies for the same reasons they have plagiarism policies: to help students understand what’s acceptable and what isn’t. An AI policy should guide students on the appropriate use of AI tools and ensure that they are not using AI to cheat or bypass their learning process.
Is Using AI the Same as Plagiarism?
While AI use and plagiarism have similarities, there are important differences. Plagiarism involves copying another person’s work and passing it off as your own, while AI-generated content is created by algorithms without direct human input. However, using AI-generated content without proper attribution can still lead to unintentional plagiarism.
Implementing an AI Policy in Schools
Schools looking to create an AI policy should gather a team, determine their goals, review examples from other institutions, draft a policy, educate staff and students, and establish reporting and consequences for AI misuse. The policy should include sections on appropriate AI use, responsible AI use, reporting and consequences, and education and awareness.
Resources for Developing AI Policies
For schools looking to develop their AI policies, there are resources available such as examples from other schools, educational materials on AI use, and guidance on addressing AI and academic integrity. By implementing clear and comprehensive AI policies, schools can navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI-generated content in education.