UK Universities Establish Guidelines for Utilizing Generative AI such as ChatGPT in the Classroom Following Cheating Scandal

UK’s leading universities have taken a significant step in addressing concerns surrounding the utilization of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, in educational settings. They have recently endorsed a set of regulatory principles to ensure its ethical application. A recent survey conducted by BestColleges in March highlighted that approximately 43% of students have utilized ChatGPT or similar generative AI tools at least once, with around 50% of them admitting to using it for writing assignments or exams. This escalating concern has prompted countries to collaborate and establish guidelines for the responsible use of generative AI, and educational institutions are now following suit.

Guidelines for generative artificial intelligence

Russell Group universities, which include top UK universities such as the University of Oxford, the London School of Economics and the University of Cambridge, have drawn up five guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in schools and colleges. The idea behind these regulations is to strike a balance between the responsible use of generative AI to enhance learning and develop skills, while preventing its misuse.

The grounded principles recognize that while generative AI has many benefits that can help students and teachers in classrooms, it also has loopholes such as plagiarism, AI biases, and bias. Nevertheless, guidelines encouraging the ethical use of AI in classrooms point to a shift in attitudes toward the technology.

In a statement, the Russell Group revealed five regulatory principles that will help shape modern learning in classrooms using AI technologies.

Principles of using artificial intelligence

1. Universities support students and staff to become AI literate.

2. The personnel must have the capabilities to support students to use generative artificial intelligence tools effectively and appropriately in their learning experience.

3. Universities adapt teaching and assessment to include the ethical use of generative artificial intelligence and support equal access.

4. Universities ensure that academic discipline and honesty are observed.

5. Universities work together to share best practices as technology and its application in education develop.