Artificial Intelligence

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Generative AI, like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, GrammarlyGO, etc., can be a useful tool in some cases. It can also provide inaccurate information, plagiarize sources without citing them, or cause you to to run afoul of the the university's Academic Integrity Policy.

Remember that you are responsible for the content of any work you submit in class. If the generative AI program you use provides misinformation or includes uncited copyrighted material, it is your responsibility to correct the errors before you turn your work in. What this means in practice is that you need to verify any information that an AI program provides you: check the sources and make sure they are real and appropriately cited, check the facts for accuracy, and make sure that you fully understand the content and how it integrates into your original work. In addition, generative AI is not secure, so using it to analyze confidential data is prohibited.

How do you know what use is good use? Look to your instructor for clarification.

Each course you take at Southern Miss may have different guidelines for AI use, specific to the subject of the course and the types of assignments you'll be completing. Your syllabus should let you know if, when, and how you can use AI, as well as how you need to cite it if you do use it. 

In general, there are three categories of AI use in courses:

USE OF AI PROHIBITED

Any use of AI tools for work in this class may be considered a violation of the University of Southern Mississippi's Academic Integrity policy.

If AI use is detected—and it likely will be, as instructors have a wide range of AI-detection software to choose from—you may face penalties, including, but not limited to, a lowered grade, a failing grade on the assignment, or a failing grade in the course.

USE OF AI CONDITIONALLY PERMITTED

There are specific instances in this course where you will be allowed to use generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist in your learning.

Use AI only when permitted, and make sure you cite it, even if you only use it to generate an outline or to organize your ideas. If you are not sure whether use is permitted on a particular assignment or how to cite it appropriately, check your syllabus first and then ask your instructor. 

USE OF AI PERMITTED

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools are permitted in this class when usage complements the learning outcomes of the course and assignments.

If your instructor permits the use AI, make sure you check the AI-generated material for accuracy, cite it appropriately, and use it to complement—not replace—your original work. If you are not sure if you are using it appropriately, visit your instructor during office hours and talk it through. AI is a new and evolving technology, so it's normal to have questions, and each instructor may have a different view on its uses and abuses.