Learn about ChatGPT and generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) tools
At Macquarie University, we recognise that artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, is fundamentally transforming the workplace and education. We are committed to preparing our graduates for a world where AI tools are used commonly. At the same time, we also need to know what you as a student can do without the use of these generative AI tools.
Assessments are undergoing a shift. There will be some that incorporate the use of artificial intelligence tools where appropriate, ensuring you are able to utilise such tools effectively and responsibly. Other assessments are specifically designed for you to demonstrate the application of your knowledge and skills without the use of AI.
To provide clarity for you, Macquarie has adopted a straightforward approach to providing you guidance on the use of Generative AI in assessment with two categories. Your assessment tasks will be categorised as either Open or Observed.
Open
These assessments do not restrict the application of AI tools. However, it is expected that the use of AI is acknowledged in an appropriate manner, similarly to an expectation to provide references for other resources or tools that are used in producing your work.
Observed
These tasks are either fully or partly observed or invigilated. AI use will either not be permitted or might be restricted in a particular way during the assessment.
Every assessment task will be listed as either Open or Observed.
Open
You may use generative AI tools as you wish. Please do so carefully since you are responsible for the content of your assignment. If the generative AI tools used included errors or made up information, you are responsible and your marks will be affected. Please also be careful about other integrity breaches. Using generative AI tools in an open assessment is not a breach however plagiarism, copying other students work or handing in ghost written assignments is still a breach.
Observed
Your unit convenor will provide full details in iLearn about using generative AI tools. Your assessment may be completely closed which means generative AI tools should not be used. If you use generative AI tools in that assessment it will be a breach of academic integrity. Other Observed assessments may specify a certain tool is used or that generative AI tools may be used in a certain way. Check assignment instructions carefully and seek assistance if you are in doubt.
Unit Guides are your definitive source for assessment information. Your unit guide will show you whether a task is Open or Observed.
iLearn is typically where you'll find more comprehensive information about your assessments. You should ensure that you read all of the information about each assessment so you understand exactly what each assessment involves, and what you are being asked to do.
It is also important that you check iLearn regularly, as unit convenors may post updates or respond to common questions about the use of AI in an assessment.
The library has a series of very useful pages explaining the use of generative AI tools as well as outlining its dangers and how you can avoid the pitfalls. See Using generative AI tools in your studies at Macquarie.
There are also some modules specifically designed to assist:
- A short module in iLearn, How to use AI properly and ethically in your studies has tips and strategies on using AI ethically in your studies.
- Referencing generative artificial intelligence provides advice for each of the five Macquarie-endorsed referencing styles on how to reference (cite) any generative AI content you have used in your work.
ChatGPT and similar generative artificial intelligence tools are natural language processing tools that produce human-sounding text in many different forms. Although they 'speak' authoritatively, generative AI tools are unable to think, reason, experience emotions, or create new information.
Teaching staff will advise as to whether it's acceptable—if at all—to use generative AI tools in an assessment task.
Check if the assessment is:
- Open – generative AI tools may be used, OR
- Observed – using generative AI tools may be restricted or prohibited fully.
Remember, permission to use generative AI tools in assessment tasks will vary between units and individual assessments.
If you're not permitted to use generative AI tools in an assessment task, it's because doing so will undermine your learning and our ability to assess your capabilities and provide you with personalised feedback.
We offer a wide range of free study and personal support services to help you succeed at university.