Add an AI Syllabus Statement

In SDSU's campus-wide AI survey, many students wanted clarity from their instructors on how they can use AI in the classroom. One way that you can provide clarity to students is to write an AI syllabus statement so that students understand acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI. 

We will note in advance that there is no one “right answer” here. Every class is unique, as is every instructor. What works in one circumstance may not work in another. We ask that you think deeply about your circumstance and what makes most sense for you. To what extent are you comfortable with students using GenAI in your class, and how should students use it? What specific ways are you not comfortable with students using GenAI in your class?

The following sample AI Syllabus Statement has been developed by the SDSU Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) in consultation with campus experts on AI literacy. Customize this minimal suggested language to suit your course.

 Students should not use generative AI applications in this course except as approved by the instructor. Any use of generative AI outside of instructor-approved guidelines constitutes misuse. Misuse of generative AI is a violation of the course policy on academic honesty and will be reported to the Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities.

Looking for more examples of syllabus statements? Check out the sample AI Syllabus Statements available in CTL's "AI in the Classroom"Canvas module.

Prefer a guided walkthrough on crafting a statement tailored to your course? Explore SDSU’s Academic AI Micro-Credential Links to an external site. to learn how to develop an AI Syllabus Statement that fits your class needs.

Need some guidelines? Check out the Guidelines for Use of Generative AI Links to an external site.,  Links to an external site.which provides best practices for setting expectations on student use of generative AI and details four key parameters: disallowed, restricted, documented, and unrestricted.

For even more inspiration, check out the resources below: 

1. Here are some starter syllabus statements Download starter syllabus statements that you can adapt for your course
2. Check out this collection of policies from across a range of higher education organizations: University Policies on Generative AI (padlet.com) Links to an external site.
3. Browse sample statements here: Syllabi Policies for AI Generative Tools Links to an external site., created by Lance Eaton