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Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Students

Provides a general overview of uses, tools, and issues with GenAI (generative artificial intelligence).

About this guide: what you'll learn

Before using ChatGPT or other generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, always make sure to check with your instructor for each course to find out if you can use AI, and if so, what exactly is permitted for a specific assignment.

If you are permitted to use ChatGPT or similar AI, be sure to:

  • evaluate the content/output carefully and critically. Content produced may contain incorrect or biased and therefore unreliable information. These tools may also infringe on your privacy (e.g., collecting data about you and sharing it), so use them with caution. Consider using more authoritative, reliable, and secure sources instead
  • make sure to cite the information you use in the text and in the reference list. We also recommend adding an acknowledgement that you used AI. 

This guide assists you in learning how to use artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly and effectively in your studies. Understand TSTC departmental rules on using AI on assignments, and how to acknowledge and reference AI use. Pages cover:

What is AI?

An overview of AI and how generative AI differs from AI you may have used before.

AI FAQs

Answers to common questions about AI tools, including how they work, their limitations, and how to use them responsibly in academic settings.

Understanding AI tools

Explains how AI tools like ChatGPT generate content using data patterns, not human reasoning or understanding. 

What AI can & can't do

Highlights the strengths of AI in summarizing, brainstorming, and language support while clarifying that it cannot verify facts, understand context, or replace critical thinking.

Responsible & ethical AI use

Outlines best practices for using AI transparently, ethically, and in alignment with academic integrity standards.

Checking AI-generated content

Provides strategies to evaluate the accuracy, bias, and reliability of content created by AI before using it in assignments or research.

Writing better prompts

Teaches how to write clear, specific prompts to get more useful, relevant, and accurate responses from AI tools.

How to cite AI tools

Explains when and how to cite-AI-generated content using appropriate citation styles like MLA, APA, and Chicago.

Departmental policies on AI use

Summarizes program and course specific rules on acceptable AI use in coursework and assignments.

Learn more: resources & reading

Offers recommended tools, readings, and support services for students who what to deepen their understanding of AI ethics and usage.