Example AI Policies, Suitable for Course Syllabi

Case Western Reserve University embraces AI in education to prepare students for the workforce. By integrating AI tools in the classroom, we aim to equip students with essential skills for the future.

At the same time, the university respects faculty's academic freedom to manage their classes. This list of sample texts serves as a starting point for syllabi as faculty finalize their fall courses and consider how AI tools might be used.

This text was created by the AI Task Force, co-chaired by Provost and Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward and last year’s Faculty Senate Chair, Maureen McEnery.

We hope this sample text will be a helpful resource as you continue to innovate and enhance the educational experience for our students.


Example AI Policies, Suitable for Course Syllabi:

1. No AI Usage Allowed:

  • Students are prohibited from using any AI tools, algorithms, or technologies for any aspect of the course, including assignments, projects, and examinations.

  • All work must be completed without the assistance of AI, and any violation of this policy may result in academic penalties.

  • Students are encouraged to consult with the instructor if they have any questions or concerns regarding the appropriate use of common/basic AI in this course.

2. Restricted AI Usage for Specific Tasks:

  • Students are expected to use AI responsibly and critically evaluate the outputs of AI tools, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical considerations in their utilization.
  • Students can use basic AI tools for specific tasks approved by the instructor, such as grammar checking or citation formatting.
  • The use of AI should be justified based on its relevance to the learning objectives, and students must demonstrate a clear understanding of both the AI methods employed and their academic application.
  • Students are encouraged to consult with the instructor if they have any questions or concerns regarding the appropriate use of AI in this course.

3. Encouraged AI Integration with Guidelines:

  • Students are expected to use AI responsibly and critically evaluate the outputs of AI tools, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical considerations in their utilization.
  • AI tools and methodologies are encouraged to enhance learning outcomes, improve efficiency, and explore innovative coursework approaches.
  • Guidelines for AI usage will be provided to ensure alignment with course objectives and academic standards.
  • Students are encouraged to consult with the instructor if they have any questions or concerns regarding the appropriate use of AI in this course.

4. Unrestricted AI Usage:

  • Students are expected to use AI responsibly and critically evaluate the outputs of AI tools, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical considerations in their utilization.
  • Students have full autonomy to utilize AI technologies for all aspects of the course, including assignments, projects, research, and examinations.
  • There are no limitations on the types or extent of AI tools used, and students are encouraged to explore the full potential of AI in their academic pursuits.
  • Students are encouraged to consult with the instructor if they have any questions or concerns regarding the appropriate use of AI in this course.