TUWC Generative AI Statement
Developed by Anna Marasko Quibera, Scarlett Hohman, Naomi Moore, Abby Clark, Annie Kunkel, Cat Fahey, and Fallon Cross; with guidance from Drs. Kerri Hauman, JJ Wallace, Beth Towle (Salisbury University), and Scott Whiddon.
Here at the Transylvania University Writing Center, we value collaborative work and the rewarding frustration that is inevitable throughout the learning process. However, we recognize AI is an ever-growing, changing technology that can be an accessible tool for various types of students. We want our patrons to be honest with staffers about AI use so that we can meet them where they are in their writing process. With this in mind, we do hope that patrons will adhere to any professor-provided policies regarding AI usage. We also encourage patrons to do further research on artificial intelligence and determine how it may or may not fit into their educational experience. At the Writing Center, each staffer may utilize generative AI in different ways within sessions. Some may use it to assist with the brainstorming process, while some may not use it at all. The TUWC hopes to promote conversations around generative AI, while respecting that everyone has their own opinion regarding whether or not to utilize it.
We see this as a working document – to be updated and developed as we learn more. We hope this statement encourages more discussion around AI in the spirit of being a liberal arts institution.
What is Generative AI?
- Generative AI is a form of artificial intelligence that can generate text, videos, and images based on a prompt given to it by a user. GenAI pulls its information from human-made media across the web. Because it is trained and programmed with human creations, subjective biases can be reflected in generative AI’s responses. It is important to understand that generative AI does not think or create, but rather pulls preconceived ideas together to produce an output.
- More on Generative AI
- More on AI and its Processes
Accessibility:
- TUWC recognizes that AI can fit different accessibility needs and help a variety of groups such as English Language Learners and neurodiverse students.
- Generative AI may seem like a convenient option, but TUWC is convenient, too! We offer virtual sessions and a variety of hours for those who may have trouble getting to campus or feel more comfortable and productive in an online setting.
- More on AI and Accessibility
- More on AI and Neurodiversity
Effects of GenAI:
- Conversations about Generative AI’s water and energy use, as well as the effects of AI data centers on small communities, are important to consider when understanding how to use AI ethically. We encourage students to do their own research about AI’s environmental impacts and come to critical conclusions!
- AI is often trained on human-made writing without the creators’ awareness or permission.
- Overusing AI can result in the regression of cognitive abilities.
- More on AI and the Environment
- More on AI, Water, and Energy
- More on AI’s Effects on Small Communities
Academic Integrity:
- TUWC acknowledges that every educator has a different policy regarding Generative AI use. We appreciate open and honest discussion between staffers and patrons about varying guidelines, while aligning with the instructions given.
- A setting of trust will be instilled between staffers and patrons when discussing AI usage.
- If students choose to utilise AI in their schoolwork while adhering to faculty guidelines, proper citations must be included as if incorporating a human-written source.
- We recognize a student’s right to use generative AI as they deem appropriate; however, we believe that generative AI should be used as a tool and not a replacement.
- More on AI Literacy