Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a part of our daily lives. At Concordia College we recognise that AI tools can enhance the learning experience for our students. However, it is also important to understand the appropriate use of AI and chatbots and how they can impact academic integrity.

AI tools such as ChatGPT can be used by students to assist with ideation, research, writing and language skills. These tools are particularly helpful for generating ideas, providing information and structure for written assignments, and improving grammar and vocabulary. However, it is crucial to remember that the final submission must demonstrate students' learning and understanding of the subject content and skills. Any information obtained from AI tools must be used by students in a way that demonstrates their own thinking and learning, be properly cited, and should not be submitted as their own work. As with other sources of information, such as the Internet, inappropriate use or plagiarism will result in appropriate consequences.

To ensure that students are using AI tools appropriately, teachers use strategies such as providing feedback during the learning process on both student and machine-generated learning and should have access to student work through OneNote or OneDrive. Students will be encouraged to demonstrate their learning if using AI-generated information and are reminded to seek assistance from teachers and other academic support resources if they have any questions or concerns about using AI tools or academic integrity.

It is essential to note that some AI tools have shortcomings, such as outdated and inaccurate information, biased data and a lack of contextual knowledge. Therefore, students must verify information generated by AI tools with other sources and understand that the references provided by AI may be irrelevant or made up.

In summary, AI tools and chatbots are useful resources that can enhance the learning experience for students when used appropriately. At Concordia College, we encourage our students to use a blended approach to AI tools, leveraging the strengths of both human and machine learning. In fact, the structure for this article initially came from a chatbot with human manipulation to produce the finished version.

Fiona Greig
Senior School Learning Leader