APU AI Policy

Use AI Responsibly at APU

This policy outlines the responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, including generative AI like Google Gemini and knowledge management tools like NotebookLM, for Azusa Pacific University (APU) students. It is designed to uphold APU’s commitment to academic integrity, foster critical thinking, and prepare students for an AI-integrated world, all within the framework of our Christ-centered mission.

I. Purpose and Core Principles
II. Definitions
III. General Guidelines for AI Tool Use
IV. Transparency and Citation Requirements

V. Faculty Discretion
VI. Student Responsibility
VII. Consequences of Violation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I. Purpose and Core Principles

This policy upholds APU’s academic integrity, promotes responsible AI use (like Google Gemini and NotebookLM) as a learning aid, requires transparent disclosure, and fosters critical evaluation of AI-generated content.

II. Definitions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools: Software, applications, or platforms that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and understanding language.
Generative AI (Gen AI): AI tools capable of creating new content (e.g., text, images, code, audio) in response to prompts. Google Gemini is an example of a Generative AI tool.
Knowledge Management/Research AI: AI tools designed to analyze, organize, summarize, and extract information from existing sources provided by the user. NotebookLM is an example of a Knowledge Management/Research AI tool.

III. General Guidelines for AI Tool Use

Permitted Uses (with Instructor Permission and Transparency): Students may use AI for brainstorming, research support, grammar/style editing, study aids, and learning/exploration, only with explicit instructor permission and proper disclosure/citation.
Prohibited Uses: Violations include submitting AI-generated content as original without permission, misrepresentation, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, circumventing learning objectives, and violating data privacy.

IV. Transparency and Citation Requirements

When permitted, students must clearly disclose and properly cite AI tool use (e.g., on title page and in-text). They must also be prepared to provide prompts and raw AI output if requested.

Example General Disclosure: “Portions of this essay’s outline were generated using Google Gemini. NotebookLM was used to summarize research articles for background information.”
Example In-Text Citation (APA 7th adaptation): (Google Gemini, 2025; prompt: “Explain the causes of the American Civil War”)

V. Faculty Discretion

Instructors set course-specific AI policies; students must follow these and seek clarification when questions arise.

VI. Student Responsibility

Students are responsible for the originality, accuracy, and integrity of all submitted work. Always verify AI-generated information, critically evaluate output, and ensure the final work reflects your own critical thinking.

VII. Consequences of Violation

Policy violations are academic integrity breaches, leading to disciplinary action as outlined in APU’s Student Handbook and according to the Academic Integrity Policy.

This policy reflects Azusa Pacific University’s commitment to academic excellence, Christian values, and responsible innovation in education. Students are expected to use AI tools as faithful stewards, maintaining integrity while embracing technology to enhance their educational journey.

FAQs About AI

When in doubt, always ask your professor. Every course and every instructor may have different expectations for AI usage. It is your responsibility to understand and follow those specific guidelines. You can also visit the Writing, Speaking, and Tutoring Center or talk to your academic advisor for additional guidance.

What is Azusa Pacific University’s official position on using AI tools?

APU supports the transparent and ethical use of generative AI tools. According to the university’s academic integrity policies, any use of AI to generate content (text, images, etc.) is not considered original work and must be properly cited and attributed. It is your responsibility to understand and adhere to these guidelines, as well as any specific instructions from your professors.

Is using Google’s AI tools considered cheating?

Using AI tools such as Gemini to generate a complete paper or assignment is a violation of APU’s academic integrity policy. Using them as a starting point, however, for brainstorming, researching, or editing is generally acceptable, as long as you properly cite the tool and are the one doing the original critical thinking. The key is to be transparent with your professors about how and to what extent you used AI.

How can I use Google AI tools to help with my studies responsibly?

You can use Google AI as a learning partner, not a replacement for your own work. Examples include:

Brainstorming ideas: Ask for different angles or topics for a research paper.
Summarizing complex texts: Use it to get a quick overview of a long article before you read it in detail.
Creating study guides: Generate flashcards or practice questions to test your own knowledge.
Proofreading and editing: Use it to check for grammar, spelling, and clarity, similar to a digital writing assistant.

What about using tools such as NotebookLM?

NotebookLM allows you to upload your own sources (notes, lecture slides, research papers) and interact with them using AI. This can be a powerful study aid. When using it, remember that AI’s output is based on the information you provided, but you must still verify all facts and critically evaluate the generated content. It’s an assistant for understanding your materials, not a tool for generating new, uncited content.

Do I need to cite every time I use an AI tool?

Yes, if you use an AI tool to generate ideas, text, or images that you include in your academic work, you must cite it. The specific citation style (APA, MLA, etc.) will depend on your course requirements, but the general principle is to be transparent about the use of AI.

How do I cite AI-generated content?

Most citation styles have developed guidelines for citing generative AI. A common approach is to treat the AI as an author and cite the name of the model, the version, and the date. You should also include the prompt you used in the text or as an appendix. Always check with your professor or the APU Writing Center for the most up-to-date and preferred method for your course. Here are two helpful resources:

Citing and Acknowledging AI Guide

AI APA and MLA Citation Guide

Can AI make mistakes or provide incorrect information?

Yes, AI models can “hallucinate” or provide inaccurate, biased, or outdated information. It is your academic and ethical responsibility to fact-check all information you get from an AI tool using credible, verified sources. Do not accept AI output at face value.

Will my professor be able to tell if I used AI?

Many AI detection tools exist, but they are not always reliable and can sometimes flag original student work. The best practice is to be honest and transparent with your professor from the beginning. APU’s policy states that when requested, you must be able to reveal how and to what extent AI was used.

What are the benefits of learning how to use these tools effectively?

Learning to use AI responsibly is a critical skill for the future. It can enhance your productivity, help you organize your thoughts, and provide new ways to engage with complex topics. It allows you to focus on high-level critical thinking while offloading more menial tasks.

What should I do if I am unsure about a specific use of AI?

When in doubt, always ask your professor. Every course and every instructor may have different expectations for AI usage. It is your responsibility to understand and follow those specific guidelines. You can also visit the Writing Center or talk to your academic advisor for additional guidance.