3.1.3: Encouraging transparency in student assignments

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As students experiment with tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and other AI-based apps, they may not always understand when or how to disclose their use. Some may assume that AI support is the same as using a spell-checker, while others may be unsure what "original work" really means in an AI era.

Creating a culture of transparency helps students think critically about how they use AI, supports ethical learning, and prevents accidental academic integrity violations.

🗣️ Help Students Share How They Used AI

Use this section to promote open reflection, not punishment.

Use AI to:

Create reflection questions that ask students to describe how they used AI during the assignment
Draft sentence starters for student disclosure statements
Develop assignment templates with a dedicated “AI Use” section

✅ Prompt Example:
“Write a short paragraph template students can use to explain if and how they used AI during a group presentation.”

🧭 Make Disclosure a Standard Practice

Use this section to normalize transparency and lower the stakes.

Use AI to:

Generate syllabus language that defines when and how students should disclose AI use
Suggest checklist items for assignments (e.g., “Did you use AI tools? If yes, explain how.”)
Provide examples of acceptable and unacceptable AI usage for your course

✅ Prompt Example:
“Draft three short assignment reminders that prompt students to disclose whether they used AI tools while completing their work.”

🔍 Help Students Reflect Critically on AI Use

Use this section to promote awareness, not just compliance.

Use AI to:

Generate journal prompts that ask students to reflect on how AI helped or hindered their work
Develop Canvas discussion topics on the pros and cons of using AI in school
Frame questions that link AI use to personal growth, ethics, or course learning goals

✅ Prompt Example:
“Create two reflection questions that help students evaluate their decision to use AI on a writing assignment.”

🎓 Why This Matters for Instructors

Transparency creates teachable moments. When students are asked to think about their use of AI tools, they’re more likely to make intentional, ethical choices. It also gives instructors insight into student habits and misconceptions about technology.

By encouraging transparency:

You prevent misuse before it happens
You help students see AI as a support tool, not a shortcut
You model ethical behavior through assignment design
You reduce suspicion and increase trust in the learning process

AI in the classroom doesn’t have to be hidden—it can be part of the conversation.

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