WORD Studio Policy on GenAI

Defining Generative AI

"GenAI" here indicates those large language models (LLMs) or generative AI programs like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, Claude, and similar text-generation tools.

Important Clarification: Writing assistance tools exist on a spectrum. The WORD Studio has long worked with students using grammar and spell-checking tools like Grammarly, MS Word Editor, and similar programs. We recognize that the line between "writing assistance" and "generative AI" continues to evolve. 

Faculty Responsibility: Clear Assignment Guidelines

Essential Elements for Assignment Sheets

To ensure effective tutoring support, every assignment sheet should include a clear GenAI statement that addresses:

1. Permission Level: Is GenAI use prohibited, allowed with restrictions, or fully permitted?
2. Specific Use Cases: If allowed, which stages of the writing process permit GenAI use (brainstorming, outlining, drafting, editing)?
3. Citation Requirements: How should students document GenAI use if required?
4. Boundaries: What constitutes acceptable vs. unacceptable use?

Detection and Assessment Concerns

Position on AI Detection Tools

The WORD Studio acknowledges that AI detection tools have significant limitations, including:

• High rates of false positives, particularly affecting non-native English speakers
• Variable accuracy rates and margin of error
• Inability to detect sophisticated or edited AI use

Recommendation to Faculty: Rather than relying solely on detection software, consider:

• Comparing student work to previous submissions for style and complexity changes
• Using process-based assignments that require documentation of development
• Incorporating in-person discussions about student work
• Focusing on learning outcomes rather than detection methods

WORD Studio Response Protocols

When Assignment Guidelines Are Missing or Unclear

If a student arrives without clear GenAI guidance in their assignment materials, WORD Studio tutors will:

1. Default to caution: Assume GenAI is not permitted
2. Document the gap: Note in session records that assignment lacked GenAI guidance
3. Redirect student: Advise student to clarify policy with professor before next session
4. Focus on process: Work on communication skills and writing strategies that don't require GenAI

When Students Bring AI-Generated Work

For Assignments Prohibiting GenAI:

• Tutors will work with the student's ideas and thinking, not the AI-generated text
• Sessions will focus on developing the student's original approach to the assignment
• Tutors will explain potential academic integrity implications
• Students will be encouraged to start fresh with original work

For Assignments Allowing GenAI:

• Tutors will help students critically evaluate AI-generated content
• Sessions will focus on improving, personalizing, and strengthening AI-assisted work
• Emphasis on maintaining student voice and original thinking
• Guidance on proper citation and documentation of AI use

WORD Studio GenAI Use Guidelines

Permitted Uses (When Assignment Allows)

WORD Studio tutors may collaborate with students using GenAI for:

1. Information Gathering: "What's a historiography?" or "Explain the concept of market efficiency"
2. Brainstorming: "What are different perspectives on climate change policy?"
3. Structure and Organization: "Help create an outline for a paper about X"
4. Citation Formatting: "Format this source in APA style"
5. Language Enhancement: "Suggest ways to make this paragraph more concise"
6. Clarification: "What's another way to express this idea?"

Prohibited Uses

WORD Studio tutors will NOT:

1. Generate substantial text: Create paragraphs, sections, or complete assignments
2. Replace student thinking: Use AI to develop arguments or analysis the student should create
3. Circumvent assignment restrictions: Use GenAI when assignments prohibit it
4. Enable over-dependence: Allow students to rely on AI instead of developing their own skills

Tutor Choice and Comfort

Individual tutors may choose not to use GenAI in sessions, regardless of assignment permissions, based on their professional judgment and ethical comfort level. Alternative approaches will always be available.

Supporting Student Development

Educational Focus

When working with students who use GenAI, tutors will emphasize:

• Critical evaluation of AI-generated content for accuracy, bias, and relevance
• Maintaining authorial voice and personal perspective
• Developing original thinking rather than accepting AI suggestions uncritically
• Understanding AI limitations including potential for errors and bias
• Proper documentation and citation practices

Addressing AI Dependency

Tutors will watch for signs that students are becoming overly dependent on AI tools and will:

• Encourage students to draft ideas independently before using AI
• Practice sessions that focus on student's own thinking and expression
• Develop strategies for writing and communication that don't require AI support
• Help students understand when and why to use their own judgment over AI suggestions

Continuous Evolution

This policy will be reviewed and updated regularly as:

• AI technology continues to evolve
• Institutional policies develop
• Best practices in AI-assisted learning emerge
• Student needs and faculty expectations change

Last Updated: July 2025
Next Review: January 2026