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1. Purpose
These requirements govern the acceptable use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation and submission of Prior Learning Assessments (PLAs). Its aim is to preserve academic integrity, promote transparency, and ensure that awarded credits reflect the student’s own experiential learning and knowledge.
2. Scope
These requirements apply to all students enrolled at Davenport University who pursue academic credit through Prior Learning Assessment methods, including but not limited to:
- Course-based PLA assessments
- Experiential learning narratives
3. General Statement on Academic Integrity
Davenport University defines academic integrity as the responsibility of all students to demonstrate honesty in all academic endeavors. In line with DU’s Academic Catalog: “Academic dishonesty includes any attempt to gain academic credit or recognition through fraudulent or deceptive means, including plagiarism, fabrication, and use of unauthorized assistance.”
The use of AI must not undermine the requirement that PLA submissions authentically represent the student’s own learning and experience.
4. Permissible AI Use in PLA Submissions
AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Grammarly, Jasper, etc.) may be used for supportive and auxiliary purposes with clear limitations. Permissible uses include:
- Brainstorming: Using AI to generate prompts, questions, or themes that help structure the student’s response.
- Editing: Utilizing grammar or style suggestions to improve the readability of self-written content.
- Formatting Assistance: Applying AI to organize documents or structure responses without generating original content.
These uses must be disclosed (see Section 6).
5. Prohibited AI Use
The following uses are considered violations of academic integrity:
- Full or partial ghostwriting: Submitting AI-generated content as if it were the student’s own original writing or reflection.
- Experience fabrication: Using AI to invent, embellish, or falsify professional or personal experiences.
- Misrepresentation of skills: Allowing AI to articulate skills or competencies the student does not genuinely possess.
6. Disclosure Requirements
Students must submit a brief AI Use Statement with their PLA submission, including:
- The name(s) of any AI tools used
- The specific purpose(s) for which they were used
- A declaration that the submission authentically reflects their own learning
Sample Statement:
“I used Grammarly to improve the grammar and clarity of my PLA narrative. All content reflects my own learning and personal experience.”
Failure to submit this disclosure may result in delays in evaluation or disciplinary action under DU’s academic dishonesty policies.
7. Evaluation and Enforcement
PLA faculty assessors and the Office of Prior Learning Assessment may use plagiarism and AI-detection tools at their discretion. If an assessor suspects inappropriate AI use:
- The submission may be returned for revision.
- The case may be referred to the Academic Integrity Review Board.
- Credit may be denied if academic dishonesty is confirmed.
8. Support and Clarification
Students are encouraged to consult with the PLA Coordinator prior to submission if unsure about appropriate AI use.
Contact:
Mary Pereira
Assessment Portfolio Project Manager
mpereira@davenport.edu
9. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to address technological advances and evolving academic integrity standards.
*Disclaimer: If deemed necessary, DU Faculty mentors overseeing a PLA attempt maintain the right to require methods not explicitly outlined in the PLA instructions in order to validate a student’s knowledge and/or experience.
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