For Faculty

As such, it is critical that faculty and instructors provide guidance to students about appropriate and inappropriate uses of generative AI in their classes. Faculty are asked to provide guidance to students via the course syllabus and to discuss their expectations with students in class. 

Syllabus Statements

To assist with this, Middlebury has provided three syllabus statements that instructors can use or adapt to provide AI-related guidance to students. We recommend starting with this language and adding more specific information for your class. For example, for each assignment, you can provide guidance on appropriate and inappropriate uses of generative AI, using a tool like Can I Use AI?

Option 1: Use Prohibited

Sample syllabus language: Using AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard) is forbidden in this class. You may not use them to assist in any part of your homework or other assignments. Any use of generative AI tools will be treated as a violation of Middlebury’s Honor Code.

Option 2: Limited Use

Sample syllabus language: You may use AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Bard) to help generate ideas and brainstorm, but only on assignments for which I have given permission to use AI tools, as specified on the syllabus. Outputs generated by these programs may be inaccurate, incomplete, or otherwise problematic. I will hold you accountable for the accuracy of your work. Be aware that use of AI may also limit your own independent thinking and creativity. Do not submit any work generated by an AI tool as your own. If you include material generated by an AI tool, it should be cited like any other reference material (e.g., MLA or APA style citation). Any uncited or inappropriate use of AI tools will be treated as a violation of Middlebury’s Honor Code.

Option 3: Allowed or Supported Use

Sample syllabus language: You are expected to use AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT and image generation tools) in this class. In fact, some assignments will require it, with appropriate citation (e.g., MLA or APA style citation). Learning to use AI is an emerging skill and we will be learning that skill together. If you have concerns about using these tools, please talk to me about your concerns so that we can find suitable alternatives.

Examples of syllabus language provided by Middlebury faculty can be viewed on DLINQ’s AI Examples page.