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2. Balancing AI Use and Academic Integrity: Insights from Student Feedback

Introduction

As we continue to integrate generative AI tools in higher education, recent student feedback from Oregon State University (OSU) and San Diego State University (SDSU) provides valuable insights. Students express both enthusiasm and concern, highlighting the need for thoughtful implementation and clear guidance from faculty. By understanding these perspectives, we can design assignments that not only support academic integrity but also empower students to use AI tools responsibly.

📊 1. Oregon State University (OSU) Survey

Survey Findings: A survey of 669 students in online courses revealed:

  • Clarity of AI Policies: Less than half of undergraduate students (48%) and only 36% of graduate students felt their instructors provided clear policies on AI use.

Student Recommendations:

  • Clearly explain AI policies and outline when and how AI tools can be used.
  • Model appropriate AI use in course examples.
  • Consider students' ethical concerns and emotions related to AI tools.

Visit the survey report for more details. Links to an external site.

📊 2. San Diego State University (SDSU) Study

Survey Findings: SDSU surveyed over 7,800 students to understand their views on AI in the classroom:

  • Students appreciate the potential career benefits of AI but prefer using these tools as assistance rather than relying on them completely.
  • They expressed concerns about maintaining academic integrity and the need for more meaningful assignments.

Student Recommendations:

  • Design assignments that require critical thinking for high-stakes tasks while allowing AI use for low-stakes assignments.
  • Provide guidance on how AI can be used to support learning, especially for understanding difficult concepts.
  • Ensure equity in AI access, addressing the digital divide and making AI tools accessible to all students.

Read the full article: “I Don’t Want to Be Taught and Graded by a Robot.” Links to an external site.

🛠️ Recommendations Summary

To balance AI use and academic integrity effectively, faculty should:

  • Clearly communicate AI policies and provide examples.
  • Design assignments that encourage critical thinking and ethical AI use.
  • Ensure equitable access to AI tools and address the digital divide.