Guidelines
Your professor determines if and how AI technologies may be used in coursework. While AI tools can be a powerful means of enhancing learning, implementing them responsibly requires that you understand not only what your professor allows but also what the university considers to be academic misconduct. Be sure to read the course syllabus carefully for guidance on the use of AI technologies and, if you need clarification, reach out to your professor before you use AI in your class assignments.
AI Literacy
Build the knowledge and skills needed to work with AI tools effectively and responsibly. Evaluate their capabilities, limitations, and how they use data. Validate AI-generated content carefully, and learn how to use AI to support your learning rather than replace your thinking.
Data Protection & Privacy
Protect your own personal information and the privacy and data of other students and the university when using AI tools. Do not share login credentials, course materials, research, or other information with AI tools that are not approved by the university. Doing so may violate university and federal policies.
Academic Integrity
Follow guidelines established for AI use in each course and assignment. If these guidelines are unclear, ask your instructor before using AI. Work submitted should reflect your own learning and must adhere to the FSU Academic Honor Policy.
Access to Tools & Applications
Use AI tools authorized by the university as other tools may collect your data, charge unexpected fees, or reuse content that you submit. Approved tools have been reviewed, vetted, and include agreements that protect users and university information.
Learning & Research
Recognize that human inquiry, critical analysis, and engagement are essential to your academic development. While AI can help generate ideas, explain concepts, or support studying, it should not replace your own learning or original research. Use AI tools in responsible ways that enhance your intellectual growth.
Policies and Responsible Use
The university has been evaluating the impact of artificial intelligence on practices in teaching, assessing its effect on learning and student engagement, and developing policies for consideration by the Faculty Senate and Office of the Provost. In the meantime, be sure you know your responsibilities when it comes to protecting the security and privacy of your personal data and intellectual property.
The university provides several AI tools and technologies to support teaching and learning at FSU. These tools are subject to agreements between the university and vendors to ensure compliance with institutional policies and laws governing data privacy. Because they offer critical data protections other large-language AI tools do not, only AI tools approved through appropriate university channels are recommended for use by FSU faculty, students, and staff (FSU login required).
Syllabus Examples
The FSU Office of Faculty Development and Advancement recommends clear language in course syllabi when the use of AI is either appropriate or prohibited in course assignments. Your professor may utilize the Traffic Light Framework* below for communicating when and how you may use AI in academic work. If you are not sure what your professor allows when it comes to AI, be sure to reach out to them for clarification.
Green Light
Students are encouraged to use AI tools, such as Google Gemini or Microsoft Copilot, to explore ideas and collaborate with others. All AI-generated content must be cited, and its accuracy should be carefully evaluated. The course will include discussions on best practices for AI usage.
Yellow Light
AI tools may be used with caution. For specific assignments, AI-generated content may be incorporated, but it must be clearly cited and validated. Students are advised to consult with the instructor if unsure about the appropriateness of AI for a particular task.
Red Light
AI tools are not permitted in this course. All work must be completed independently, without the assistance of AI tools. Violations of this policy will result in academic penalties.
*Source: Mittelstadt, Meg. "The GPT Revolution: Exploring Prospects and Roadblocks in Teaching and Learning." Webinar, University System of Georgia AI Webinar Series 2023.
Training
LinkedIn Learning
Integrate AI technologies in your day-to-day workflow by learning the core concepts of artificial intelligence and generative AI functionality.
EDUCAUSE
Discover AI resources and learning opportunities from EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit advancing the strategic use of technology in higher education.
Google AI Professional Certificate
Master the practical application of artificial intelligence with this self-paced professional certificate. The course is available at no cost to FSU students, faculty, and staff.