Use of Generative AI in ISU's Courses

How to Place This Resource in Your Canvas Course

This is a preview of the "Use of Gen AI in ISU’s Courses" interactive Canvas page, featuring quick answers to common student questions. To add this interactive page to your Canvas course:

Create a new blank page in your Canvas course.
Click in the upper right-hand corner to edit.
Click the DesignPlus Quick Start Wizard at the top of the blank page in the edit mode.
In the panel to the right, select AI Templates and click on Use of Generative AI in ISU’s courses. You will see an overview of the interactive page to the left of the panel.
Click Add to Editor. When interactive content is inserted, save the page.
Edit the page by adding or removing the questions using the DesignPlus tools.
Add the page to any module in your Canvas course. See the How do I add course content as module items? Canvas guide.

For questions and assistance, please email celt-help@iastate.edu.

Preview: Check Your Understanding!

Directions: Check your understanding of AI ethics as you select each question to view the answers.

Do all courses at ISU have the same student AI use policy?

Answer: The short answer is no. Policies on AI use differ from course to course. Some may encourage the use of AI, while others permit limited use, and still others restrict all use.

Tip: Check the syllabus for each course's policies on AI use. If you have questions about how or when any AI platform may be permitted for use in the course, you should speak to your instructor.

Is there a list of AI tools available to students at ISU?

Answer: You can view AI tools available at ISU on the AI at ISU website. ISU has enterprise data protection for Microsoft Copilot on the web and Google Gemini. Learn more about best practices for data protection on the AI at ISU Safely Use AI webpage.

Tip: Although AI tools are available to students, policies on AI use may vary from course to course. Check the syllabus for your course.

What does it mean to use AI ethically?

Answer: To use AI ethically means working with AI to enhance your learning and productivity. You should not let AI do the work for you! Additionally, you should always disclose your use of AI.

Tip: You are at ISU to learn. Do not compromise that goal! Be sure to always be thoughtful and transparent about your AI use and ensure it aligns with your course policies.

What is the difference between brainstorming with AI and submitting AI-generated work?

Answer: Brainstorming with AI means using it to spark ideas or explore concepts. Submitting AI-generated work means turning in content created by AI as your own, which is prohibited unless explicitly permitted and disclosed. Over-reliance on AI can hinder skill development, reduce creativity, and compromise your achievement of learning objectives.

Tip: Always check your syllabus for what’s allowed and disclose any AI use. Use AI to support, not replace, your own thinking.

If AI is permitted, should you disclose AI use in your coursework?

Answer: Always disclose your use of AI. Assume full responsibility for your coursework by using the method required by the instructor or, if the instructor hasn’t specified a method, by citing it.

Tip: Transparency builds trust and demonstrates your learning process. Cite AI contributions like you would any other contributions. Follow your instructor’s required method for disclosure or these guides:

If AI use in your course is limited, what does it mean?

Answer: Your course instructor may allow limited AI use (e.g., for brainstorming only; not in graded submissions; only if you disclose AI use).

Tip: Always check the syllabus for conditions limiting your AI use. Policies on AI use differ from course to course.

Why may your course prohibit AI use?

Answer: Your course may focus on developing human creativity and original thinking. Additionally, AI use might be prohibited to ensure your mastery of foundational skills.

Tip: Ask your instructor about the reasons for prohibiting the use of AI.

Who is responsible for verifying the accuracy of AI-generated content in your course?

Answer: Both instructors and students are responsible! Instructors are responsible for ensuring that the course instructional materials represent up-to-date theory and practice when incorporating AI-generated content. Students must assume full responsibility for the accuracy of any AI-generated content they include in their submissions.

Tip: AI can make mistakes. Always fact-check and validate sources. For further guidance, view the University Library’s Tips for Evaluating AI Outputs.

What happens if you violate your course’s AI policy?

Answer: Violating your course’s AI policy may be considered academic misconduct under ISU’s Student Code of Conduct. Be sure to carefully read your course syllabus and understand the course policies related to the use of AI.

Tip: Always follow your syllabus and ask questions if unsure.