AI Use

The Department of Geography recognises that the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) has become pervasive. Given that Rhodes University is an institution where formal assessment is used to measure and recognise a qualification, it has become necessary to develop policies related to the use of AI.

The following are the policies that relate to students in the Department of Geography:

• Each course will  EXPLICITLY include a statement on the AI use policy for that particular course. It will clearly state when it is allowed and when it is not.

• In cases where AI use is permitted, it must be correctly and fully acknowledged.

• The Department reserves the right to use "AI checkers" to confirm its unauthorised use in any assessments.

• If unauthorised AI use is confirmed, it may result in a grade of 0% or even the withdrawal of a student's DP (Duly Performed) Certificate.

The Department acknowledges that not all AI use is 'bad'. It is beneficial for:

• Preparing notes and summaries for own use.

• Generating reference lists in a standardised and correct format.

• Translation of own notes and summaries.

• Correcting Python and R scripts in specifically defined cases.

• Generating Python and R scripts in specifically defined instances.

Despite its advantages AI sometimes:

• Produces generalised information that often lacks the required specific context.

• 'Halucinates' and produces 'fake' information.

• Makes up references that look fine, but that don't exist.