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FAQ about AI
Reminder
Always check your instructor’s policies regarding AI before using it for any part of an assignment.
Policies vary by course. What is allowed in one class may be considered academic dishonesty in another. Even if it is just for brainstorming, using AI without permission could result in a violation of CSUSM’s Academic Honesty Policy.
Check the syllabus, and when in doubt, ask your instructor.
Instructor Expectations & Academic Integrity
- Can I use AI on my assignments at CSUSM?
Only if your instructor allows it. Each professor sets their own AI policy. Some allow brainstorming or editing help; others may prohibit all AI use. Always check your syllabus or ask directly.
- If my professor doesn’t mention AI, does that mean it’s okay to use
No. You should assume silence means you cannot use AI for your class. Ask your instructor for clarification before using AI in any part of your coursework.
- What counts as dishonest use of AI?
Submitting AI-generated work as your own without permission or acknowledgment may violate the Academic Honesty Policy. Using AI in any way for your assignment is not explicitly allowed by your instructor is also a violation.
- If I did all the work myself and just had AI check it, do I need to say that?
Yes, especially if the AI made suggestions you used. Be specific about what the tool did. “Assisted by AI” is not clear enough on its own.
Writing and Citing with AI
- Can I use AI to revise or edit my writing?
It depends on your professor’s AI policies and expectations. If those are not written in the syllabus or assignment sheet, then you need to have a clear conversation with your instructor. Revising based on AI suggestions is different from letting it rewrite for you, so make sure you and your instructor are on the same page.
- How do I cite ChatGPT or other AI tools?
Use the citation style your class requires. For example, in APA:
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com
In-text: (OpenAI, 2023)Always include how you used the tool in your text or in a note.
Using AI to Learn
- How can I use AI to study without cheating?
You can treat AI like a tutor or study partner. Ask it to quiz you, explain hard concepts with analogies, or give feedback on your reasoning; however, you should not copy or submit its answers.
- Can I trust what AI tells me?
Not always. AI can “hallucinate.” This means it may generate false or biased content that sounds convincing. Always fact-check anything AI gives you.
Privacy, Data, and AI Tools
- Is it safe to put my assignment into ChatGPT or Grammarly?
Not always. CSUSM provides access to some AI tools which are a good starting place if your instructor allows. ChatGPT EDU, available through CSUSM, is FERPA-aligned. Do not upload personal info, research data, or instructor content into public AI tools.
- What is ChatGPT EDU and how is it different?
ChatGPT EDU is CSUSM’s licensed version of ChatGPT. It offers more features and protects your data. What you enter is not used to train the model. You can sign up using your CSUSM email.
- Is Grammarly okay to use?
For basic grammar checking, it usually is, but you should check with your instructor to be sure. The AI-powered rewriting feature is much bigger deal, and using this without checking without your instructor’s explicit consent is ill-advised.
AI at Learning and Tutoring Services
- Are tutors encouraging students to use AI?
No. We strive to help students develop their own critical thinking and learning process. That involves bringing their own thinking to bare on the course material.
Learn more about AI and Academic Integrity.
If AI does come up in the sessions, LTS tutors refer students to their instructors' AI policies. If the instructor does not have an explicit policy, our tutors will encourage students to reach out to the instructor to clarify their stance on AI in the class.