UWC Policy on AI
At the UWC, our goal is to help student writers develop and enhance their own unique writing processes. To do so, we help these writers at any stage of their process while offering non-directive, non-evaluative ND/NE feedback. Our goal is the same if students use generative AI (like ChatGPT).
The UWC offers individualized human-to-human sessions and consultants should not use generative AI to guide the session. We recognize that for some, generative AI can be an accessibility tool; for others, it can be a tool of convenience. Our commitment is to work with the student writer on student writing, not to edit text.
In any case of AI-generated or AI-enhanced text, we will focus on the student’s process and student’s writing. This is true even if the instructor allows generative-AI use.
AI and Writing: Aspects Consultants May Consider
University Policy
UT does not have a blanket policy on using AI for writing. Enterprise Technology does have a compilation of existing resources titled “Guidance for Using Artificial Intelligence” that may be of interest and is updated regularly. In general, AI adoption differs from department to department and from instructor to instructor. When in doubt, good places to consult are syllabus or department/college websites.
Ethics
Discussions have linked AI with embedded biases, intellectual property concerns, or environmental impact. Consider when and how you want to touch on it during a consultation, as you would a potentially sensitive topic.
Plagiarism
AI use does not immediately signify plagiarism. What gives? Check the policies of the consultee’s pertinent audience (e.g., instructor, admission committee, job). It may also help to review how UT defines plagiarism when thinking about when to raise it as a concern during a consultation.
AI as a Tool
Some have found AI to be a helpful tool in writing processes such as brainstorming, outlining, organizing, or editing. With our ND/NE approach, consultations focus on human processes and writing.
What is AI?
In the UWC, “AI” often refers to generative AI (GenAI) or chatbots such as ChatGPT or Copilot. These AI types use algorithms or models (such as LLMs) to “generate new content or data” – text, images, videos.
As a contemporary concept, AI refers to a wider breadth of tools using computer systems to “perform tasks that typically require human intelligence,” including “visual perception, speech recognition, and decision-making.”
AI Info Sheet from UT Libraries
Scenario
Plagiarism?
A consultee admits to using AI- generated text to develop major parts of their work.
Word-Track/ What You Can Do
Do: check the instructor’s/ audience’s policies with the consultee, as you would read a prompt with them.
Don’t: report. Communicate the concerns with the student and open a discussion on the topic to their comfort level.
“Have you considered your instructor’s policy?” “Does this align with your audience’s guidelines?“
“This might be a concern of plagiarism or academic dishonesty. Would you like to discuss this concern?”
Connections to UWC Idea/s
Audience:
Limits of AI use are contingent on the consultee’s audience
“Peer” Tutors:
Consultants are not instructors or authority figures.
Confidentiality Policy:
We don’t report on plagiarism.
Can I use AI?
A consultee asks whether they can use AI in their work, whether to rewrite, clarify, or edit.
Remember: AI rules are defined by the relevant audience. Work with the consultee to see if their AI use aligns with the appropriate rules.
You may even open a discussion on maintaining their ownership/voice over their intellectual output.
“That depends on you and your audience. What does your instructor/audience say about AI use?”
“Does using AI align with your own goals/principles as a writer?”
Audience:
Limits of AI use are contingent on the consultee’s audience.
Student-Centered, ND/NE:
Consultants ddon’t tell consultees what to do or not to do. However, consultants should not work on AI text.
Remember our policy of helping “students identify writing habits that impede their ability to meet their writing goals.”
Assumption
A consultee doesn’t admit to using AI on their paper, but you suspect they have.
You can choose either to (1) proceed with the consultation as if they wrote without AI.
Or you can also (2) raise the concern carefully, as you would a plagiarism concern, assuring the consultee of our commitment to confidentiality.
“Would you mind sharing some of your process (or tools you used) for writing this paper?”
Writing Ownership of Text:
From UWC Handbook: “Ultimately, the writer must decide how to construct the paper.” We balance this with our concern for their writing voice and process.
AI Together
A consultee asks whether you can use an AI tool together or help them with how they’ve used it.
You may also choose a strategy/tool you are more comfortable with when dealing with this request, from outright refusal (as per the ND/NE AI policy) or offering strategy suggestions.
“Unfortunately, I can’t help you edit under our ND/NE policy.”
“I’m here to help you – are you open to trying another strategy or tool?”
Consultee/Consultant Balance:
We center the consultee’s needs while committing to our process as strategies as tutors.
Writer’s Process
Work to prioritize the writer’s process. Together, you can weigh the pros and cons of using AI.
For other AI concerns, feel free to reach out to an APC or use the designated section for concerns in the post-consultation note.