As generative AI tools become more widely used, our Individual Representation Service has seen a rise in academic misconduct cases, often involving students who’ve used AI in ways that don’t align with University guidelines, whether intentionally or not.
This is especially concerning because around 40% of the students we support have disabilities. Many rely on tools like Grammarly to complete assignments, which means they are more likely to be investigated for generative AI-related misconduct issues.
The Open University recognises the potential of generative AI in learning, but also its risks. The most recent guidance from the OU on generative AI states: "Unless your module explicitly asks you to use it, you’re not required to use generative AI in your studies".
The key points outlined by the OU for the use of generative AI – both responsibly and effectively – are:
- You may use generative AI to support your learning.
- Check your module’s assessment tab to find out if you may use generative AI as part of your assessment and, if so, how to acknowledge its use.
- If you have shared with the University that you have a disability, you may use generative AI as a reasonable adjustment, provided its use aligns with the assessment’s intended learning outcomes, and does not compromise academic integrity.
- You must not provide confidential or personal information about any individual or organisation, including yourself and the OU, to any generative AI tool.
- You must not put OU materials into AI tools (except Microsoft Copilot in protected mode) or into a tool provided to you as a reasonable adjustment for your disability.
- Be aware that the outputs of generative AI tools may be incorrect, biased, incomplete or irrelevant.
- Dependence on or inappropriate use of generative AI will prevent you from developing the depth of understanding and skills you need for further study and for employment.
We want to help students avoid the stress of being subject to academic misconduct investigations. We therefore encourage students to review the OU's Generative AI for students guidance and to read page 15 of the OU's Academic Conduct Policy.
The Individual Representation Service is available to offer guidance to students on how this policy and guidance applies to them, and can provide support to students who find themselves subject to academic conduct investigations.
If you have any questions, please contact us at oustudents-studentadvice@open.ac.uk.