AI tools and academic integrity

This message was sent to all students at UW Tacoma. Similar messages were sent to all students of UW campuses in Seattle and Bothell.

We hope that you are having a successful start to the academic year.

Amid ongoing national conversations across higher education regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based tools, we are writing to share resources and the University’s expectations regarding AI tools and academic integrity.

At the UW, we view academic integrity as a commitment to the values of honesty, trust and responsibility. Academic integrity is at the heart of what makes us Huskies — it’s not just a set of rules, but a way of life that we carry with us as we journey through our academic pursuits. UW students are expected to practice high standards of academic and professional integrity.

It is important to know and understand the expectations of UW Tacoma and your instructors regarding academic standards. This is especially relevant to the use of technology and online resources available today.

AI content generators, such as ChatGPT, present opportunities that can contribute to your learning and academic work. However, using these technologies without your instructor’s permission may violate academic standards of the University. Under the Student Conduct Code, cheating includes the unauthorized use of assistance, including technology, in completing assignments or exams. While some instructors may encourage you to use technology to enhance your learning experience, other instructors may require that you do your own work without seeking outside help.

We ask that you take these steps:

• Read the syllabus for each course you take so that you understand the particular expectations of each of your instructors.
• If you are unsure of expectations, ask for clarification before you use specific resources in completing assignments or exams.
• Review the Student Conduct Code and two companion policies, Student Governance policies Chapter 209 and Chapter 210. If you have questions, please contact UW Tacoma’s Student Conduct & Academic Integrity team.

UW Tacoma is committed to helping students realize their potential in college and beyond. If you need support, you can get help from the Teaching & Learning Center and Academic Advising. The UW Tacoma Library offers research help around the clock via UW Libraries 24/7 Chat.