Academic Misconduct in the Age of Generative AI

Academic integrity means submitting work that is genuinely your own. While plagiarism is still the most common concern, in the advice team, we are seeing more students for cases related to inappropriate use of Generative AI such as ChatGPT, Copilot, or similar tools.

This guide explains how to avoid academic misconduct while still making good use of AI to support your learning. 

What counts as Academic Misconduct with AI? 

Misconduct happens when AI does work on your behalf in a way that is not allowed. Examples include: 

• Submitting AIgenerated paragraphs or ideas as if they were your own 

• Asking AI to complete assessment tasks (e.g., ‘write my essay’) 

• Using AI in exams or controlled assessments where it isn’t permitted 

• Relying on AI to generate analysis, arguments, interpretations, or references 

• Using AIfabricated sources or evidence 

The “Ask a Friend” Rule 

A simple way to check whether your use of AI is acceptable: 

If it would be acceptable to ask a friend for that type of help, it’s acceptable to ask AI. 

Acceptable uses (similar to what a friend could help with): 

• Proofreading for grammar, spelling and clarity 

• Formatting references or checking citation styles 

• Explaining theories or concepts 

• Suggesting structures or headings 

• Creating study plans or revision prompts 

Unacceptable uses (things a friend shouldn’t be doing for you): 

• Writing or rewriting your assignment text 

• Generating arguments or responses required by the assessment 

• Creating examples, case studies, or data for you to submit 

• Listing or inventing references 

• Turning your notes or bullet points directly into paragraphs 

How to Use AI Ethically 

1. Keep ownership of your work 

AI can guide your thinking, but the ideas and writing must be yours. 

1. Check everything carefully 

AI can produce incorrect, biased or fabricated information. Always verify with reliable academic sources. 

1. Be transparent if required 

Follow local guidance on declaring your AI use. A simple statement such as: 
“I used Microsoft Copilot for proofreading and grammar suggestions.” 
is often enough or there may be a tick box at the start of your submission that allows you to declare your use of AI.  

1. Keep evidence of appropriate use 

If you have an account, you should be able to save your chat history which is helpful to show, or screenshots to show how AI supported your work. 

Why It Matters 

Responsible use of AI protects: 

• Your learning - you develop the skills your course intends 

• Fairness - all students are assessed equally 

• Your academic record -misconduct can lead to penalties affecting grades or your student profile 

If in doubt, ask your module leader or personal academic tutor for advice!