Upholding Academic Integrity in the Age of AI
With the increasing accessibility of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, students must navigate their use responsibly and ethically. The Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS) Policies and Procedures emphasise that academic integrity is a cornerstone of learning. Misusing AI—whether through dishonest, unattributed, or disallowed applications—constitutes a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and Procedures.
Ethical Use of AI in Your Studies
Rather than viewing sources as a requirement to fulfil, consider them an essential part of deepening your understanding. Proper research helps you place your work in the broader context of your discipline, ensuring meaningful learning and personal growth.
AI can be a helpful tool, but its use must align with ethical guidelines:
✔ Follow task instructions – If AI is not permitted for a particular assignment, do not use it. If it is allowed, document your prompts and submit any requested supporting materials to demonstrate your engagement with the technology.
✔ Avoid debates over definitions of plagiarism – The BSSS explicitly considers unauthorised AI use a breach of academic integrity. Adhere to the given guidelines rather than relying on commercial claims from AI service providers.
✔ Be mindful of AI-powered rewriting tools – If an AI tool completely reworks your writing, particularly in subjects like English or Religion, where personal expression is integral to assessment, this is considered a violation of academic integrity.
Demonstrating Your Own Learning
Your teachers assess your progress based on your own efforts and understanding. If you are not engaging in the learning process yourself, you should not expect to receive credit for the work.
Additionally, if a piece of work significantly differs from your usual writing style or performance, your teacher may question its authenticity. This does not necessarily mean you have done something wrong, but you should be prepared to explain your process.
Best Practices for Maintaining Integrity
✔ Keep notes and drafts as you work on take-home tasks.
✔ Be ready to provide documentation of your thought process and research.
✔ Engage actively in learning rather than relying on AI to think for you.
By using AI responsibly and upholding academic integrity, students can harness the benefits of technology while ensuring their work remains an authentic reflection of their learning journey.
Ms Martin