Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI In the Classroom

The NIC ad-hoc AI Committee met throughout the Spring Semester of 2024 to discuss the academic implications of generative AI for North Idaho College faculty and students. All committee members share the same deep commitment to academic freedom and believe that any decision about the use of AI should be left to individual instructors. In that spirit, after extensive discussion and research, the committee presents the following document.

https://fctl.ucf.edu/technology/artificial-intelligence/

This comprehensive document presents use cases divided into four categories for the classroom management of AI. Categories range from the permissive integration of AI into assignments to the absolute prohibition of the technology and the use of tools and techniques to detect its use.

Generative AI in Higher Education in Idaho

A statement of shared principles

Preamble: This Statement is designed to provide a starting point for conversations about generative AI in higher education in Idaho. The Idaho Higher Education AI Statewide Resource Alliance recognizes the importance of drawing on shared principles to navigate the intersection of generative AI, student learning, and ethics; we also recognize that any statement is temporary at best in this quickly-evolving environment. As such, this is a living document that will undoubtedly be modified and updated.

These principles aim to uphold ethical considerations, ensuring that generative AI serves as a tool for deepening learning rather than a source of inequity. In this dynamic context, the importance of human intelligence has never been more significant. These principles underscore the centrality of human judgment, empathy, and ethical discernment in harnessing generative AI's potential for the benefit of education and society at large.

• People come first. Humans should always be involved in the assessment of outputs generated by AI tools—whether text or images—prior to submission, presentation, or decision-making. Rigorous evaluation of all outputs from generative AI is essential.
• An inquiry mindset will foster a culture of continuous learning about AI. Educators can actively encourage students to question, explore, and engage with AI concepts beyond the classroom. AI programs can be used in a variety of instructional contexts to cultivate a sense of curiosity, exploration, and critical thinking among learners.
• Learners need equitable access to generative AI. There will be potential digital divides in students' access to AI tools. While educators have an obligation to prepare students for a learning and workplace context that will include generative AI, efforts should be made to ensure all students have appropriate access.
• Responsive, engaged teaching matters more than ever. Prioritize maintaining strong connections with students amid the integration of AI, ensuring a supportive and personalized learning environment. Mindful assessment practices should reflect the evolving landscape of AI. How we gauge student learning in this context requires thoughtful consideration.
• Expectations around privacy and copyright are evolving rapidly. Exercise caution when using public Generative AI platforms, avoiding the upload of copyrighted, private, or confidential information. Respect ownership rights, particularly concerning student work and student data.
• Transparency is essential. Students and educators should foster trust through clear communication about the methods, timing, and relevance of AI use. Providing clear insights into the functions and roles of AI systems and distinctly defining the overarching goals of AI integration are imperative for maintaining transparency and fostering a culture of academic integrity.

These principles serve as a foundation for institutional conversations, recognizing the ongoing dialogue and adaptability required in the dynamic intersection of AI and education. They are also in accordance with the recently-published statement from the United Nations Internet Governance Forum, “Higher Education’s Essential Role in Preparing Humanity for the Artificial Intelligence Revolution.”

Collaboratively written by members of the Idaho Statewide AI Alliance                                         January 2024