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Research & Referencing

Select & Evaluate Resources -

Using AI Appropriately

 

AI tools can be very helpful during your research and assignment writing process. However, it is important to use these tools appropriately to make sure that you're gathering the knowledge and skills you need and maintaining your academic integrity. 

AI Do's & Don'ts

Do:

  • Use AI to brainstorm ideas
  • Use AI to explain concepts in simple language
  • Ask AI for suggestions on how to improve grammar and make your writing clearer
  • Ask AI to help plan an assignment
  • Practice your critical thinking skills by fact-checking and verifying information from AI
  • Reference any use of AI in your assessments
  • Check with your teachers to confirm the AI guidelines for your assessments

Don't:

  • Copy and paste AI-generated content directly into your assessments
  • Use AI-generated information without checking the facts
  • Share personal or sensitive information
  • Rely only on AI - Make sure you consult a variety of resources
  • Use AI as a shortcut - Make sure you're engaging with information and building your own knowledge 

 

Using AI Tools Effectively

Ask Clear Questions

Use simple language and be specific. 

Try Different Approaches

Rephrase or add detail if the first answer isn't right.

Give Context

Mention location, task or background info.

Double-Check Important Info

Always verify facts with trusted sources.

Know the Limits

AI can be wrong, so use your judgment.

Ask Follow-Up Questions

If confused, ask again for more detail. 

Evaluating AI Responses

Understand How AI Works

AI gives answers based on patterns, not necessarily facts. Treat responses as helpful suggestions.

Check the Facts

Double-check important info with trusted sources.

Watch for Bias

Think critically - AI can reflect biases from its training data.

Use Multiple Sources

AI is a good starting point, but make sure you also use other sources like reliable websites and books.

Ethical Considerations

Creatorship

Using AI-generated content without expanding or modifying it means that you're presenting work that is not your own.

Accessibility

Some AI tools cost money, which limits who has access to them.

Privacy

AI tools collect user data, which may be shared or sold to other companies.

Bias

AI can reflect bias from its training data or developers.

Academic Integrity

Submitting AI-generated work as your own is plagiarism. 

Accuracy

AI may give incorrect answers that sound true. Always double-check the info.