Generative AI And Data Security
Mason has launched a suite of AI packages that have been vetted and protect the information you submit to them. Unlike other AI packages, these software suites are designed to assist students in the education environment. There are principles governing the use of AI at Mason that should be reviewed.
Generative AI and Grammarly
Many individuals have been using Grammarly since it launched in 2009 to help them refine their writing. What many were not aware of is that in May 2023, they launched an AI feature that is automatically set to “on”. If you are taking a course where the use of Generative AI is limited, it is important you go in to your settings and deactivate it when you are doing assignments in that course. We want you to ensure your work withstands scrutiny during the grading process and that you are not inadvertently referred to our office for a matter you may have been unaware of.
Generative AI and Web Extensions
Many use Generative AI for personal purposes, including personal websites, social media, and even
video captioning. This involves the use of extensions on your web browser. It is important that
you deactivate those unless you have permission to use Generative AI in your course.
Generative AI Use in Coursework
Appropriate and inappropriate AI use varies from course to course. What is allowed in one course may not be allowed in another. If you need to know if you can use AI, please read the course syllabus for more information. Improper AI usage typically results in a referral to the Office of Academic Standards. Faculty are required to have a stated policy related to AI usage in their syllabus. More information can be found at the Stearns Center website.