This guide has resources on using AI properly as well as locating information in the Library. For more help, please use the chatbox for the Library or contact your librarians.
Because AI uses existing data on the internet, there are important limitations to consider.
Be aware that AI:
Always evaluate information created by AI to check for accuracy, just as you would any other source that may be questionable.
*If your instructor does not allow any use of AI, then you must follow their instructions.
**You must still turn in your own work and cite AI when you use it.
Here are some examples of how to use AI correctly.
| Use AI to | Example of the prompt (question) | Example Response | A word of caution |
| Find answers to common questions | "What is the boiling point of water?" | “The boiling point of water is 100°C at sea level.” | Common questions could also be searched in a browser where the user could verify the authority (website) of the answer. |
| Generating Creative Ideas for Graphics and Visuals | “I need ideas for a poster about recycling.” | “Consider a poster showing a vibrant, healthy planet on one side and a polluted, dying one on the other, with recycling as the bridge between them. Use bold colors and simple icons to represent different recyclable materials.” | The user should verify any information presented and ensure no biases exist. |
| Reviewing and Critically Analyzing Texts for Validity | “Can you analyze this article on climate change for accuracy?” | “The article’s claims about rising sea levels align with scientific data, but its predictions about future temperature increases are exaggerated beyond what most current models predict.” | The user should verify any information presented. |
| Improving Grammar and Writing for Non-Native English Speakers | “I wrote an email in English. Can you check and correct it?” | “Certainly! Here are some corrections and suggestions for your email: [provides detailed corrections and explanations].” | The user should verify any information presented. |
| Experimenting with Different Writing Styles | “Can you rewrite this paragraph in a more formal tone?” | “Original paragraph: [text] Rewritten in a formal tone: [text] The revised paragraph adopts a more structured and sophisticated language, suitable for formal contexts.” | Double-check the content of the paragraph. |
| Explaining Concepts | “Explain the concept of photosynthesis in simple terms.” | “Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to make food from carbon dioxide and water. This process also produces oxygen, which is important for life on Earth.” | The user should verify any information presented. |
| Self-Assessment and Practice | “I’m studying for my T Level in Onsite Construction. Can you create practice scenarios for building regulations and safety protocols?” | “Of course! Here are several scenarios and questions ranging from fundamental safety practices to more complex building code requirements, designed to test and enhance your knowledge in these areas: [list of scenarios and questions]” | Always check with your instructor for testing materials available from the college. |
| Finding Hot Topics | "I need three hot topics about education for high school teachers." | "Of course! Here are three hot topics: Technology Integration, Mental Health and Well-Being, and Equity and Inclusion" | AI can scrape the internet for topics but may miss some too. Always do your own research to find topics that interest you. |
How NOT to Use AI in College
Remember, AI is a tool and shouldn't replace the learning you should do in college. Plus, misusing AI can lead to negative academic consequences.
Here are some guidelines:
| Do NOT use AI to | Example of the prompt (question) | Example Response | Why this is unethical |
| Write your paper | “I need to write an essay about the communication skills. Can you write it for me?” | “Sure, here’s a complete essay on the communication skills: [full essay].” | This is a direct request to have AI do the entire assignment, which amounts to plagiarism. |
| Do your math | “I have a math assignment due. Can you solve these problems for me?” | “Yes, here are the solutions to your math problems: [complete solutions].” | You are using AI to replace learning. |
| Create a presentation | “I’m not sure if I can use AI for my history presentation. Can you create the presentation for me?” | “Yes, I can create the presentation slides for you: [complete presentation slides].” | This is plagiarism and you aren't learning the material. |
| Create a reference page | “Can you add references to this piece of work?” | “Sure, here are some references: [provided references].” | This could lead to made-up or inappropriate references and indicates you didn't do the research. This is also plagiarism. |
AI Safety and Data Privacy 
When interacting with AI, keep in mind that chatbots and image generators can store data you provide. To maintain privacy and security:
Cite any uses of AI information on the reference or works cited page as well as in an intext citation just as you do your other sources.
Here is an example of citing ChatGPT for a query about stress in APA format.
OpenAI. (2024). Response generated by ChatGPT to a query about stress and college students, GPT-4 version [Large language model]. https://www.openai.com/chatgpt
Intext citation is
(OpenAI, 2024)
Here it is in MLA format:
"What are some of the stressors that college students face" prompt. ChatGPT, GPT-4 version, OpenAI, 24 July 2024, chat.openai.com/chat
Intext citation is
("What are some of the stressors")
Other tips for using AI as a source is to take screenshots of the AI prompt you type in as the results that AI gives you. Also, be ready to explain how you used AI and include this information in the text of your paper, if applicable. Make sure to intext cite and reference text and any pictures that AI generated for you.
There are different types of AI tools:
Examples of these AI tools include:
Canva free-to-use online graphic design tool, with Magic Write. Use it to create social media posts, presentations, posters, videos, logos and more
ChatGPT Minimum Age. You must be at least 13 years old or the minimum age required in your country to consent to use the Services. If you are under 18 you must have your parent or legal guardian’s permission to use the Services.
DALL.E 3 Minimum Age. You must be at least 13 years old or the minimum age required in your country to consent to use the Services. If you are under 18 you must have your parent or legal guardian’s permission to use the Services.
Gemini Minimum Age. You must be at least 13 years old or the minimum age required in your country to consent to use the Services. If you are under 18 you must have your parent or legal guardian’s permission to use the Services.
The number of AI tools is constantly growing and you can keep up-to-date with the AI Tools Directory.
Check your syllabi for more information from your instructors about the use of AI in your classes. When in doubt, always ask.
Rowan Cabarrus' Syllabus Statement on AI and Coursework
Per the College’s Campus Code of Conduct, student use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) to complete coursework without the express permission of the faculty member is prohibited. Please note, when AI usage is allowed for assignments, exercise caution and ensure that you have appropriately cited and attributed any content generated through their use. Failure to adhere to the specified generative AI usage guidelines in this class may result in academic consequences. Pay careful attention to the assignment requirements to determine whether AI tools are permitted and follow the instructions accordingly. If you have questions, please contact the faculty member.
This statement was added to Syllabi on August 8, 2024
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