Skip to Main Content

AI at SDSU

What is AI?

 AI Definition

"Artificial intelligence represents a branch of computer science that aims to create machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include learning from experience (machine learning), understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, solving problems, and making decisions. From self-driving cars to virtual personal assistants, AI is reshaping various aspects of our daily lives, and its significance continues to grow."

From the University of Ilinois Chicago Online Master of Engineering: https://meng.uic.edu/news-stories/ai-artificial-intelligence-what-is-the-definition-of-ai-and-how-does-ai-work/

AI use at SDSU

AI use in your courses:

In May 2024, the University Senate extended its definition of plagiarism to include the un-cited use of generative AI applications (genAI), specifically: “representing work produced by generative Artificial Intelligence as one’s own.” What that means is, use of generative AI (like ChatGPT) not assigned by the instructor constitutes academic dishonesty and is subject to the discipline described above.  

Usage might vary from class to class, so if you have any questions about using genAI in your coursework ask your instructor.

AI Standard Syllabus Statement SDSU

Syllabus Statement

Academic freedom ensures that instructors are empowered to determine whether students may use genAI in their classes and to what extent. To minimize confusion, look for the inclusion of specific guidance regarding the use of generative AI in your courses.

This AI Syllabus Statement was developed by the SDSU Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) in consultation with campus experts on AI literacy.  

Students should not use generative AI applications in this course except as approved by the instructor. Any use of generative AI outside of instructor-approved guidelines constitutes misuse. Misuse of generative AI is a violation of the course policy on academic honesty and will be reported to the Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities.

If you have any questions about what use of GenAI is permitted, be sure to consult your instructor.

 

Guidelines

Guidelines

These Guidelines were developed to help faculty and students understand the level of AI use allowed within a classroom.

They offer best practices for setting expectations for student use of generative AI in a course, and include four basic parameters:

  • AI-1 - Disallowed: Generative AI tools are strictly prohibited in this assessment or deliverable. Any use of AI will be considered a violation of academic integrity
  • AI-2 - Restricted: In this assessment or deliverable, students may use AI, but with restrictions and documentation requirements specified by the instructor.
  • AI-3 - Documented: Students can use AI in any manner for this assessment or deliverable, but they must provide appropriate documentation for all AI use.
  • AI-4 - Unrestricted: Generative AI tools can be used without restrictions, and documentation is not required.

When in doubt, ask your instructor about acceptable uses of GenAI in an assignment, and document any phrases or passages generated by an AI app as you would any source.