Think Before You Prompt: Example AI Use Cases in Coursework
AI tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly can support your learning—but only when used responsibly. Use these scenarios to better understand how to make smart, ethical choices when working with AI in your classes.
Scenario – Relying on ChatGPT to Solve Homework Problems
The Situation
You are struggling to complete a set of complex math problems assigned as homework. Frustrated and running out of time, you turn to ChatGPT to solve the problems. The tool generates step-by-step solutions, which you copy directly into your assignment without reviewing or understanding them. Your instructor had emphasized that all work must be completed independently and specifically prohibited the use of external tools, including AI, for this assignment.
The Issue
By using ChatGPT to solve your homework problems, you have violated the instructor’s explicit instructions to complete the assignment independently. This constitutes the use of an unauthorized aid, which is a breach of UNK’s Academic Integrity Policy.
UNK expects students to complete their work independently unless otherwise stated. Submitting work generated by AI without proper authorization is considered academic misconduct, and sanctions may apply.
Additional Risks
- Lack of Understanding: By relying on ChatGPT for answers, you missed an opportunity to learn and practice problem-solving skills crucial for exams and future coursework.
- Errors in AI-Generated Content: ChatGPT may generate solutions with flawed logic or incorrect answers, which your instructor could easily detect.
- Academic Penalties: Violating academic integrity policies can result in a failing grade on the assignment, or more serious academic sanctions.
What You Should Do Instead
- Ask for Help: Reach out to your instructor, teaching assistant, or campus tutoring services for clarification and guidance.
- Work on Time Management: Break the assignment into smaller tasks and start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Use AI Responsibly: If AI tools are permitted, use them only for brainstorming, studying, or practicing problems—not for completing graded assignments without instructor approval.
Scenario – Using AI to Write a Research Paper
The Situation
You’ve been assigned a research paper with a strict deadline, but you’re struggling to manage your time and feel overwhelmed. You decide to use an AI tool like ChatGPT to write the paper for you. The tool generates a well-written essay, which you submit with minimal edits. Your instructor had clearly stated that all work must be original and explicitly warned against using AI tools for generating complete papers.
The Issue
By submitting a paper written by AI, you have failed to meet the requirement of producing original work. This violates UNK’s Academic Integrity Policy and constitutes plagiarism, even if the ideas came from an AI tool.
Additional Risks
- Plagiarism Detection: Your instructor may use plagiarism detection tools that flag AI-generated content.
- Limited Understanding: Relying on AI means missing out on the opportunity to develop critical research and writing skills.
- Academic Consequences: Submitting AI-generated work can lead to a failing grade or further academic penalties.
What You Should Do Instead
- Research Actively: Use AI tools to assist with brainstorming or organizing ideas but ensure the final work is your own.
- Seek Support: Reach out to the writing center or your instructor for guidance on structuring your paper.
- Plan Ahead: Allocate time for research, drafting, and revisions to reduce stress and complete the assignment independently.
Scenario – Using Grammarly to Edit Your Essay
The Situation
You’ve written an essay for an English class and want to ensure your grammar and spelling are perfect. You run the essay through Grammarly, which suggests several edits to improve clarity and correctness. You accept the changes and submit the revised essay to your instructor. The syllabus permits the use of AI tools to improve grammar but emphasizes that the content and ideas must remain your own.
The Issue
In this scenario, using Grammarly to edit your essay is acceptable as long as the edits are focused on grammar, punctuation, and style improvements. However, if the tool starts rewriting substantial portions of your content, it may cross the line into academic misconduct, especially if the rewritten text no longer reflects your own work.
Additional Risks
- Over-Reliance: Relying too heavily on tools like Grammarly could prevent you from developing your own editing skills.
- Instructor’s Policies: If your instructor has stricter policies on AI usage, even minor use of these tools might be problematic.
What You Should Do Instead
- Use AI Within Guidelines: Focus on grammar and style suggestions without altering the content or core ideas.
- Develop Skills: Practice self-editing to build your skills alongside using AI tools.
- Check with Your Instructor: If unsure about using editing tools, ask your instructor for clarification.
Scenario – Using AI to Brainstorm for a Group Project
The Situation
Your group is brainstorming ideas for a project and struggling to come up with something unique. One group member suggests using an AI tool to generate topic ideas. The AI provides several creative options, and the group selects one as the basis for their project.
The Issue
In this case, using AI to generate ideas is likely acceptable, as it serves as a brainstorming aid rather than completing the project for you. However, it’s essential to ensure that the final work reflects the group’s efforts and complies with any instructor-provided guidelines on AI usage.
Additional Risks
- Unoriginal Ideas: AI-generated ideas might lack originality or fail to meet the assignment’s requirements.
- Dependence on AI: Over-reliance on AI for brainstorming could limit the group’s creativity and collaboration.
What You Should Do Instead
- Use AI as a Starting Point: Let AI inspire your brainstorming but refine the ideas collaboratively.
- Verify Suitability: Ensure the chosen topic aligns with the project’s objectives and guidelines.
- Communicate Clearly: Discuss AI usage with your instructor if you’re uncertain about its appropriateness.
