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Navigating Generative AI in Higher Education

AI Detection Tools

As Generative AI tools become more advanced, it will become harder to differentiate what is human created versus AI created. While AI detection tools exist, they are not always accurate at identifying AI generated materials. For this reason, it is recommended that multiple detection tools be used to get the most accurate results. But even if multiple detection tools show similar results, they could still be inaccurate. Detection tools are essentially "reverse engineering language patterns" and use those patterns to determine the likelihood the text being evaluated was generated by AI or written by a human. 

The OpenAI Text Classifier Tool was created in January 2023 by the creators of ChatGPT. According to OpenAI, this tool "correctly identifies 26% of AI-written text." 

GPTZero, perhaps the leader in AI detection, claims to be the most accurate tool currently available. But it still has many limitations and should be used with caution. 

Lifehacker recently published a series "Exposing AI" to help individuals determine if what you are reading, hearing, seeing, or chatting with is AI generated. While these tactics will not guarantee that you accurately identify AI content all of the time, these tips will help you decide whether or not a conversation with a student to discuss AI usage is warranted. 

If you are concerned about students using generative AI to complete assignments or tests, you may want to structure these tasks to be "AI proof." Keep in mind that AI changes frequently, which may require you to adjust assignment prompts more frequently. Test out assignments yourself using AI. Does the tool do what you would consider "good" work? If so, how can you incorporate more complexity or critical thinking into the assignment? Exams might need to be a combination of oral exam and written test to ensure students know the content without the aid of AI. 

Addressing AI in Your Syllabus

At this time, OWU does not have a broad policy regarding the use of AI in the classroom. But many academics agree that language should be included in the class syllabus to avoid any confusion on what is and is not permitted in regards to AI usage. Lance Eaton from College Unbound created a crowd-sourced document with examples of classroom policies. You can use this document to brainstorm your own policy or, if you already have a written policy, share it to help others. 

When you draft your AI policy in your syllabi, be as specific as possible. If there are instances where AI is never permitted, outline these in detail. If there are times where you encourage AI experimentation and use, make these clear. At the start of each semester, have a frank conversation with your students about your policy to ensure there is understanding before issues arise. 

Using AI in the Classroom

There are many ways to integrate generative AI tools in the classroom. You can find 101 ideas in this "crowd-sourced collection" published online in June 2023. Whether or not you want to use AI as a learning tool, having discussions with students will help them decide if these tools are valuable in their own lives and professional future. Originally designed for K-12 instructors, the "Generative AI Decision Tree" from Edutopia is a great tool to help students understand when it might be appropriate to utilize AI tools, inside and outside the classroom. 

Helping students learn about misinformation and deep fakes can be a challenge. Marc Watkins, Director of the Mississippi AI Institute, recently wrote an article outlining some of these and suggests a few games students can try to help them discern fact from fiction. 

Cynthia Alby has ready-made AI prompts that are useful for a wide variety of teaching purposes, from your own planning to student supplemental support. Alby also compiled a list of recommended sources about AI in higher education. 

AI Hacks for Educators is an open access book that provides information and generative AI prompts for teachers on a variety of topics.

The AI Education Project has created resources primarily for those teaching k-12, although some items could be adapted for use in a university setting. 

Using AI for Research

There are a number of emerging tools to help assist with academic research. While none of these should replace traditional forms of research, they may help you as you begin a literature review or to brainstorm new topics of exploration. Some of these tools help you see connections between different citations in a new way and some help you find answers to research questions. As with other AI tools, it is important to verify the information you find for accuracy and bias. Note also that many of these tools have limited free usage and may require a subscription.