Writing Center Guidelines Regarding the use of AI
As a Writing Center, we believe in fostering critical thinking, originality, and process-based writing. Our AI policy treats AI text generators as tools that can complement the writing process rather than replace it. Whether a course allows the use of AI or not, we will run tutoring sessions in such a way that requires students to understand essay structure, claims, and evidence.
We will defer to the instructor鈥檚 course policy to determine the level of AI use allowed. In the absence of a policy, we will assume that AI assistance is not allowed. If we suspect misuse of AI in the production of a text, we can withdraw our services.
If a student admits to using AI tools to generate work for an assignment that does not allow the use of those tools, the WC consultant will inform the student that the use of AI tools in this instance may be a violation of the Honor Code and of the professor鈥檚 assignment guidelines. This response assumes that the assignment sheet and/or syllabus clearly indicate that AI tools are not permitted for use with this assignment.
If a student admits to using AI and wants help rewriting their essay, advisors may brainstorm with the student new ideas and strategies for completing the assignment without AI tools.
In addition, WC advisors may discuss with students the accuracy and potential bias of AI-generated material and citation of AI-generated material and/or use of AI tools (if required). Advisors will err on the side of caution and suggest the student both cite the material and ask the professor for more guidance. Advisors will also explain the difference between open access sources and primary library sourced material.
(Repeated misuse of AI in texts brought to tutoring sessions will be reported to the WC director and may, depending on the circumstances, be communicated to the instructor.)