2.7.3: Transparency and ethics in using AI for instruction

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Be Clear, Be Fair, and Keep Students in the Loop

As instructors begin using AI to support teaching—whether drafting announcements, designing assignments, or brainstorming prompts—it’s essential to model transparency, ethics, and integrity. Not because AI use is inherently unethical, but because students deserve to know how, when, and why it’s being used in their learning environment.

Transparency builds trust. Ethics ensure equity.

🧭 Why Transparency Matters

Students may assume that:

You wrote everything from scratch
The feedback they received is fully human-generated
AI use is not allowed for them if it’s not discussed openly

Being transparent about how you use AI helps:

Set expectations around what’s allowed
Model responsible decision-making
Avoid confusion or accusations of inconsistency

✅ Example:
“This assignment prompt was drafted with the help of an AI writing tool and then revised to align with our course goals and expectations.”

⚖️ Core Ethical Principles for AI Use in Instruction

1. Consent and Privacy

Avoid entering student work, names, or grades into public AI tools. Always check institutional FERPA and data-sharing guidelines.

2. Equity and Access

Not all students have equal access to AI tools or digital literacy support. Avoid assigning tasks that assume or require AI use unless guidance and alternatives are provided.

3. Credit and Acknowledgment

When AI is used to draft instructional materials, let students know—just like you would cite a colleague’s contribution or a textbook excerpt.

4. Critical Modeling

Demonstrate how to question, edit, or refine AI-generated content. Use AI as a teachable moment to reinforce information literacy and academic integrity.

🧑‍🏫 Talking Points for Students

Consider including a short section in your syllabus or LMS about AI use, such as:

“In this course, we may use AI tools (like ChatGPT) to support course planning and communication. Any content generated with AI will be reviewed and revised by the instructor to ensure alignment with course goals. Students are encouraged to ask questions about how these tools are used and will receive guidance if AI is ever recommended for their own work.”

🎓 Why This Matters for Instructors

Transparency fosters trust, clarity, and inclusion.
Ethical use models the kind of integrity we ask of our students.
By demystifying AI in instruction, you make room for critical thinking—not secrecy or confusion.

Use AI to enhance learning—but never let it replace honesty, care, or connection.

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