At York St John University, we recognise that generative artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the way we learn, create, and communicate. Whether you’re using tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas, Grammarly to refine your writing, or image generators to visualise concepts, AI is becoming a part of everyday academic life. But how should you use it responsibly and effectively in your studies?
YSJ’s approach to AI is grounded in academic integrity, critical thinking, and transparency. Our university-wide guidance on Generative Artificial Intelligence outlines how AI can be used ethically and appropriately in academic work. It encourages students to think critically about when and how to use AI, and to always be clear about what is their own work and what has been generated or supported by a tool.
But here’s the most important takeaway: your assignment brief is your primary source of guidance when it comes to using AI in assessments. Each module and assessment may have different expectations, and it’s your responsibility to check what’s allowed. Some assessments may permit AI-assisted brainstorming or proofreading, while others may prohibit AI use entirely. If you’re ever unsure, ask your tutor for clarification.
To help you navigate this evolving landscape, the Library & Learning Services team, along with academics, teaching and learning professionals, and careers professional, have developed a Critical AI Toolkit.
This resource is designed to help you:
• Understand what generative AI is and how it works
• Reflect on the ethical and academic implications of using AI
• Evaluate the reliability and accuracy of AI-generated content
• Learn how to reference AI tools appropriately
The toolkit also includes practical tips for using AI critically, such as questioning the biases in AI outputs, recognising when AI might oversimplify complex topics, and understanding the limitations of these tools. Remember: AI can be helpful, but it’s not a substitute for your own thinking, analysis, or voice.
We also want to emphasise that transparency is key. If you use AI in your work, you must acknowledge it clearly and accurately. This might mean including a statement in your assignment or referencing the tool in your bibliography. The university’s guidance provides examples of how to do this correctly.
As AI continues to evolve, so will our policies and support. The Library & Learning Services team is here to help you develop the digital and academic skills you need to use AI responsibly. We offer workshops, 1:1 appointments, and online resources to support your learning journey.
In short: AI can be a powerful tool, but it’s how you use it that matters. Always start with your assignment brief, use AI critically and ethically, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Sources:
• York St John University. (2023). Generative Artificial Intelligence Guidance. https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/policies-and-documents/generative-artificial-intelligence/
• York St John University Library & Learning Services. (2023). Critical AI Toolkit. https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/library/library-study-and-digital-skills/critical-ai-toolkit/
Statement on AI usage in this blog post
We used an AI chatbot, Microsoft Copilot, to help find spelling and grammar errors in this blog post.
