#China #Beijing #AI in Education #Tsinghua University #Educational Ethics

Comprehensive AI Framework at Tsinghua University

Recently, Tsinghua University made a significant leap in the realm of education by introducing a comprehensive framework entitled "Tsinghua University Guiding Principles for the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Education." This initiative marks the institution's proactive stance in integrating AI into teaching and research activities, addressing both the opportunities and challenges that accompany this digital evolution.

Background and Rationale

As generative AI technologies increasingly permeate classrooms and laboratories, students are leveraging these tools to enhance their learning experiences. However, accompanying concerns about intellectual stagnation and over-reliance on technology have emerged. Faculty members are exploring innovative ways to incorporate AI into their teaching methods while grappling with ethical considerations and appropriate usage. The newly released guiding principles aim to establish a structured, multi-tiered set of guidelines and norms for AI application across the campus.

Structure of the Guidelines

The guidelines are organized into three key sections: General Provisions, Teaching and Learning, and Theses, Dissertations, and Practical Performances. Together, these sections create an overarching framework designed to address critical aspects of teaching and academic research in the context of AI application.

Core Principles

According to Wang Shuaiguo, Director of the Online Education Center and chief author of the document, these principles support not only current educational and research scenarios but also future expansions in academic research, administrative services, and emerging applications. Wang emphasizes the importance of keeping the document dynamic, evolving alongside technological advancements rather than restraining innovation.

The General Provisions section outlines a cautious yet proactive approach to AI at Tsinghua University, emphasizing five core principles: responsibility, compliance, integrity, data security, and fairness. These principles underline that AI should serve as a supportive tool while educators and students remain the central agents in the teaching and learning processes.

Usage Guidelines

In the Teaching and Learning segment, faculty members are encouraged to determine how to utilize AI based on specific course objectives. They are expected to communicate these guiding principles to students at the beginning of each semester, taking responsibility for all AI-generated teaching materials. Additionally, the guidelines urge educators to encourage students to develop a critical and well-rounded understanding of AI. While students are permitted to use AI as a learning aid within course boundaries, they are strictly prohibited from submitting AI-generated texts, codes, or other content as their own academic work, in order to maintain academic integrity.

For graduate students, the Theses, Dissertations, and Practical Performances section emphasizes that AI should never substitute for the independent intellectual work required of students. Any forms of misconduct, such as ghostwriting or plagiarism involving AI, are strictly forbidden. Mentors are tasked with providing clear guidelines regarding the appropriate application of AI and to supervise the research process rigorously to uphold academic integrity while ensuring originality in students' work.

Future Outlook

The guiding principles from Tsinghua University were crafted to facilitate, rather than hinder, innovation. They reflect an extensive exploration of the increasing role of AI in education and efforts toward reaching a shared academic consensus. New tools, such as AI-powered courses and campus guides, have raised questions about ethics, accountability, and authorship in teaching and research. This framework marks a pivotal moment in the integration of AI and education at Tsinghua University, shifting the focus from mere technological advancement to institutional support aimed at promoting ethical and responsible AI usage.

Moving forward, Tsinghua plans to disseminate these principles through its AI competency platform, faculty workshops, and interdisciplinary dialogues. The university aims to guide its community toward a responsible and informed approach to AI, fostering a sustainable ecosystem for educational innovations while preparing the next generation to harness intelligent technologies and drive forward innovation.

For more detailed information on the guiding principles for AI in education at Tsinghua University, visit their official website and social media channels.