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Faculty Help: ChatGPT Comprehensive Resource Guide: Sample Syllabus Policies

Repository of info about impact of ChatGPT on/in higher education. Content creation in collaboration with Anna Mills, College of Marin.

Schedule a Consult with Sarah Hood

AVAILABLE TO SFCC STAFF & FACULTY ONLY

Sarah Hood Whether you allow the use of Generative AI in your course or not, having a course/syllabus policy in place is a best practice that can prevent confusion and miscommunication. Sarah Hood is happy to work with you one-on-one, in small groups or as a department to develop a policy that meets your and your students' needs. Click here to schedule a consult.   

Developing a Generative AI Policy for Your Course/Syllabus

As of the Spring 2024 semester, SFCC does not have an institutional policy on the use of Generative AI, nor does SFCC require faculty to include such a policy in their course syllabi.

However, whether you plan to allow the use of Generative AI in your course or not, having a course/syllabus policy in place is a best practice that can prevent confusion and miscommunication.

What is Generative AI?
Generative AI (ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) is a type of artificial intelligence that uses deep-learning models to generate high-quality output - including text, images, and audio – in response to user prompts.

Important Elements to Include in a Policy
This can be as short as a small paragraph, so composing it doesn’t have to be time-consuming.

  • Definition of Generative Artificial Intelligence (aka Generative AI or GenAI)
    Not everyone knows what Generative AI is so getting everyone on the same page is important. Feel free to use the definition above, or Google it to cite another definition from a reliable source.
  • Your Policy
    This is where you state whether or not you will allow the use of Generative AI and if so, to what extent. But be sure not to paint yourself into a corner. For example, if you plan to allow its use to some extent (e.g. brainstorming, light proofreading) then you may want to include a caveat that your students must, for example, consult individual assignment guidelines.
  • Steps Taken/Consequences
    This does not have to be highly detailed but it should address what students can expect should you, their instructor, suspect unsanctioned use of Generative AI.
  • A reference to SFCC’s 2-1: Student Code of Conduct Policy
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