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Tips for the student Community

Generative AI tools can be used to supplement your knowledge but cannot replace the value of your personal efforts and perspective in your academic work and evaluations. The following tips will help you use AI systems ethically and responsibly where permitted.

 

Check that AI use is authorized

Before using generative AI tools in your courses and assignments, make sure that the instructor responsible for the course explicitly permits it in the course syllabus. Remember that the rules may differ from one course to another. If in doubt, check with the person teaching the course.

Be transparent

If you are allowed to use an AI tool in a course, do so in accordance with the instructions provided by the person responsible for the course. Mention any use of generative AI, in respect of the citation standards specific to this type of content. If necessary, verify the expectations of the instructor responsible for the course if they seem unclear.

Be cautious

Be careful about confidentiality and copyright issues when using AI tools. Never copy and paste or upload personal, confidential, or copyrighted information into an AI system.

Consider the limits of generative AI

While AI tools can generate convincing content, they cannot assess the quality or accuracy of what they propose. These tools are often biased and sometimes provide erroneous or false information. Given that, it is important to be vigilant and think critically when evaluating generated content. Check all the content the AI tool produces against reliable sources before using it in your work or in any document. You are responsible for carefully verifying and evaluating the reliability of all information you decide to use in your academic activities.

Prioritize your learning

While generative AI tools can support your learning journey, they cannot achieve course objectives or develop required skills for you. Make sure that you are able to demonstrate your understanding of the content,for example, during a discussion on the subject, or to apply the required skills in a variety of contexts.

This content has been adapted for the needs of Université Laval from a text produced by McMaster University.

Guidelines regarding AI in teaching and learning

Five principles regarding AI in teaching and learning have been drafted to support reflection on the challenges and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence tools. They are intended for the student community as well as faculty and teaching staff.

Principes directeurs concernant l’intelligence artificielle dans l’enseignement et l’apprentissage (PDF, in French only)

Training and resources

Definition and vocabulary

Free access to Copilot

Université Laval’s Microsoft Office 365 licence grants access to the protected version of Copilot, the conversational agent, for students. Visit the Copilot page to find out how to log in.