Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence system with the capability to generate text, images, or other media in response to prompts. Generative AI models learn the patterns and structure from input training data to generate new data with similar characteristics. These tools pull from multiple sources and do not always generate accurate or credible content. 

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How Do WCU Students Use Generative AI in Assignments?

Below are outlined steps for using generative AI in assignments. 

STEP 1: Select the tool you want to use.

• There are multiple different generative AI tools available. Many are free, but this can change at any time. Below is a list of a few popular generative AI tools that can be used. There are many more tools available than those listed below.
  • ChatGPT (Open AI) 
  • Google Bard
  • Chat Genie

STEP 2: Enter a prompt or information for the tool to generate and generate a response.

• Look in your assignment for instructions or a prompt to use that can help you generate relevant content most effectively. It is important to be specific, provide detail, and ask for specifics regarding your desired output. Once entered, you can easily generate the response using the generative AI tool. 

STEP 3: Edit or use the output for analysis.

• As per the assignment guidelines, you will use the output as it is and analyze it, or if you generated the text to help you with an assignment, you would need to fact-check the text and edit the content to be in your own words. This content must be cited and referenced, even if rewritten in your own words.
• The purpose of generative AI tools in academic assignments is to provide a starting point. Students should always check the accuracy and edit content to make the statements original or match their own voices. This content must be cited and referenced, even if rewritten in your own words.

STEP 4: Cite the generative AI tool in APA Style.

• As per the assignment guidelines, you must cite the generative AI tool on the Reference list and in the text (when applicable).
• Please see this article on guidelines for citing ChatGPT and other generative AI tools.