Writing is a unique form of human expression that empowers people to think through and build strong arguments, stylistically communicate ideas, and experiment with creativity. The Academic Writing Program at the University of Tampa deeply values the ability of students to develop these transferable writing skills by way of research, reasoning, and individual expression and voice. In other words, we value writing as thought given shape, and we believe this approach to writing benefits students in and out of the Academic Writing classroom. Development of these skills is integral to the learning outcomes of the Academic Writing Program.
As artificial intelligence language generators[1] (AI) unethically utilize the work of others, frequently fabricate information, and undermine the ability to learn, the use of AI in the Academic Writing classroom is prohibited except in cases where the instructor has given express permission and students follow their specific guidelines. This prohibition covers the use of AI for any part of the reading and writing process, from summarizing to brainstorming to outlining to drafting to revision. It also covers all types of AI, from whole cloth generation of ideas and language to moderate or major transformation of original writing. Students are urged to disable any type of AI that may be integrated into programs and devices used for Academic Writing coursework. Using AI without permission violates the Unauthorized assistance or collaboration, Inappropriate use of others’ work (plagiarism), and Deception and misrepresentation categories of behavior in the UTampa Academic Integrity Policy.[2] Students who use AI in their coursework may be charged with an academic integrity violation and may receive penalties ranging from a zero on an assignment to failure of the course.
While we understand students may feel stress and pressure to produce “good writing,” and may be tempted to use AI, UTampa offers the Saunders Writing Center as a collaborative venue for improving student work. Students may also reach out to their instructors for additional assistance. These resources can help students avoid an Academic Integrity Policy violation.
[1] Defined here as “computer systems that can produce, or generate, various forms of traditionally human expression, in the form of digital content including language, images, video, and music” (, 5).
[2] .
