RWC-DS Views on AI Writing Tools

The FSU Reading-Writing Center and Digital Studio recognize that generative AI tools including the use of large language models such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and DALL-E are being used in educational settings. To clarify, generative AI tools refer to computer systems that can produce (or generate) various forms of traditionally human expression through digital content including language, images, video, and music (MLA-CCCC Task Force). We encourage faculty and students to read about AI writing technologies’ affordances and limitations related to their subject areas, creative and research purposes, and teaching objectives. We list some additional resources at the bottom of this page.

In the RWC-DS, our priority is to work with students on their short- and long-term learning goals through individualized sessions. We recognize that students have questions about AI writing tools, and we are training our staff about responsible usage and critical awareness practices.

Attribution

In accordance with the Office of Academic Integrity, the RWC-DS recommends instructors clearly explain whether AI writing technologies can or cannot be used for assignments. If the use of AI writing technologies is permitted, the RWC-DS endorses attribution and/or citation that aligns with the course guidelines or assignment instructions. This policy also extends to multimodal forms of communication including, but not limited to, the use of AI generated images. We ask that students bring in their assignment guidelines if ChatGPT or a generative AI writing tool is used for a project.

MLA Style’s method for citing generative AI states that writers should:

  • cite whenever you paraphrase, quote, or incorporate into your own work any content (whether text, image, data, or other) that was created by it.
  • acknowledge all functional uses of the tool (like editing your prose or translating words) in a note, your text, or another suitable location. 
  • take care to vet the secondary sources the GenAI tool produces.

MLA Style Example:

“Describe the symbolism of the green light in the book The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald” prompt. ChatGPT, 13 Feb. version, OpenAI, 8 Mar. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat.

APA’s Style blog released an entry that covers how to cite AI software within text, an appendix, and/or online supplemental materials. 

  • quoting ChatGPT’s text from a chat session is more like sharing an algorithm’s output; thus, credit the author of the algorithm with a reference list entry and the corresponding in-text citation.

APA Style Example:

OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat

By discussing the importance of attribution, we also hope to discourage unethical uses of AI writing including but not limited to:

  • relying exclusively on a generative AI writing tool to generate the majority of ideas and content without engaging the ideas, analyzing and shaping the material, or conducting supplementary research.
  • using a generative AI writing tool to produce an entire piece of writing that will be submitted as original work where the generative AI writing tool is not acknowledged or attributed.
  • failing to disclose the use of AI involvement in the creation of your work.

Conversations about AI writing models are ongoing. Generative AI writing tools are evolving, and it is important to recognize that each tool has limitations including potential biases and the ability to produce false information. The Reading-Writing Center and Digital Studio will revisit this statement as we learn more about new developments. The RWC-DS is not liable for irresponsible uses of generative AI tools. 

Additional Resources

Last Updated on April 2, 2024