Saint Louis University AI Guidelines and Policies

Guidelines for Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence at Saint Louis University

I. Introduction

  • Impact of AI: AI transforms industries, affecting how we live, work, and learn.

  • Role in Education: Enhances learning experiences, supports teachers, reveals student talents.

  • Definition of AI: Simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, involving learning, reasoning, and self-correction.

  • Key Features of AI: Problem-solving, pattern recognition, natural language processing, machine learning, data analysis, and adaptability.

  • Generative AI (GenAI): A subfield of AI that creates original content (text, images, music) through learned patterns from data. Examples include ChatGPT and DALL-E.

  • Educational Applications: Intelligent tutoring systems, plagiarism detection tools, virtual reality, experiential learning.

  • Ethical Considerations: AI must support educational values, prioritizing human connections and ethical use.

II. Rationale for AI Use in Education

  • Mission of SLU: Establish guidelines to ensure responsible AI integration aligned with SLU’s values and mission.

  • Importance of Guidelines: Promotes transparency, accountability, and addresses risks like bias and privacy violations.

  • Empowering Community: Harness benefits of GenAI while safeguarding ethical principles and promoting trust in innovation.

III. SLU's Position on AI Integration

  • Commitment to Excellence: AI as a catalyst for educational outcomes and innovation without compromisi ng ethical values.

  • Ecological Framework: Balances technology with fundamental educational principles.

  • Core Values: Christian spirit, competence, innovation, compassion as the foundation for AI integration.

  • Christian Spirit: AI systems built on Christian principles.

  • Competence: Essential skills for students and staff to thrive using AI-driven personalized learning tools.

  • Innovation: AI should drive creativity and adaptability in learning environments.

  • Compassion: AI tools should cater to marginalized students and promote equity.

IV. AI Integration Framework

  • Framework Overview: Pyramid structure emphasizing core values, guiding principles, and practical applications.

  • Core Values: Foundations of ethical AI integration.

  • Guiding Principles: Standards ensuring responsible use of AI aligning with institutional goals.

  • Applications in Education: Teaching/learning, research, administration—including ethical assessments.

V. Guidelines for Responsible Use of AI

A. General Provisions

  • Title: Guidelines for Responsible Use of AI in education.

  • Purpose: Framework for ethical AI integration and anticipating risks.

  • Coverage: Applies to all students, faculty, and staff at SLU.

B. Definitions

  • AI: Processes enabling machines to mimic human intelligence.

  • AI Tools: Software that automates tasks requiring cognitive processing.

  • Ethical Responsibility: Adhering to moral principles in AI applications.

  • Transparency: Ensuring all aspects of the AI process are clear and open to scrutiny.

  • Accountability: Responsibility for AI's outcomes lies with its users.

C. Faculty Guidelines

  1. Enhance learning experience using AI tools.

  2. Design inclusive and accessible learning materials.

  3. Align AI use with institutional values.

  4. Be accountable and transparent with AI integration in teaching.

  5. Model academic honesty and review AI-generated materials for quality.

  6. Maintain data privacy when using student data with AI tools.

  7. Regularly update knowledge on AI developments.

  8. Seek student feedback on AI tools.

D. Student Guidelines

  1. Use AI responsibly to support learning.

  2. Properly reference AI-generated content.

  3. Validate and check AI-generated information.

  4. Keep transparency about the assistance received from AI.

  5. Ensure the use of AI does not disadvantage others.

E. Research Guidelines

  1. AI tools enhance productivity but should not replace critical thinking.

  2. Ensure proper citation of AI usage in research projects.

  3. Validate AI outputs before dependence.

  4. AI can assist in literature reviews, data analysis, and writing.

  5. Maintain a balance of original contributions in research.

F. Extension and Administration Guidelines

  • Promote ethical use of AI in public outreach and administrative roles, ensuring inclusivity and accountability.

VI. Implementation

  • Governance Structure: Establish committees for AI oversight and compliance.

  • Regular Audits: Monitor AI systems and ensure alignment with ethical guidelines.

  • Training Programs: Educate faculty and students on ethical AI use, its benefits, and challenges.

VII. Enforceability

  • Disciplinary Actions: Failure to follow these guidelines may result in disciplinary measures in line with institutional policies.

VIII. Effectivity

  • The guidelines take effect immediately upon approval, embodying SLU's commitment to ethical AI utilization in achieving educational mission and impact.