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Generative AI

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) offers exciting opportunities to enhance teaching and learning while also presenting important challenges for educators, students, and staff. York University is committed to supporting the responsible use of AI through clear guidance, resources, and practical supports grounded in five key principles: Transparency, AI Literacy, Choice, Academic Integrity, and Alignment with York's Core Values. These principles guide our approach to AI and inform the resources available throughout this website.

Explore York's central hub for guidance and resources on Generative AI in Teaching & Learning.

Guidelines for AI in the Classroom

York’s Senate Academic Conduct Policy allows students to use AI in their coursework as long as their use is documented or referenced, and it has not been restricted by the instructor (see Section 5.2 a). By default, any documented use of AI in coursework is not a breach of academic integrity unless explicitly prohibited by the instructor.

Given the growing presence of AI in learning tools and technologies, instructors are encouraged to clearly communicate course-specific expectations for AI use in course outlines, eClass sites, assessments, and classroom discussions. Clear guidance helps students use AI responsibly in ways that support learning outcomes and academic integrity. Use this editable slide deck to support classroom discussions and establish the level of AI use permitted in each course.

Guidelines on AI in Graduate Studies

AI can be a valuable tool in graduate research, but the work must remain the student’s own rigorous, original contribution. Graduate students must consult their supervisor or supervisory committee before using generative AI in thesis or dissertation research, writing, creation, or editing, and be prepared to document, explain, and defend its use during the oral examination.

AI norms vary by discipline and are evolving quickly. Supervisors should stay current with relevant journal and funding agency guidelines and consult the graduate program director if uncertain about a student’s proposed use of AI.

York University faculty, staff and students have access to Microsoft Copilot with enhanced data protection, via your Passport York ID. Copilot uses the latest GPT model and is available for free.

Resources on AI in Teaching & Learning

Explore resources to help you teach effectively with and about GenAI, build students’ critical digital literacy, adapt assessments, use AI creatively in the classroom, and communicate your course AI policy in the course outline.


Build Your AI Knowledge and Teaching Practice

The Teaching Commons also offers many opportunities for professional development and discussion around teaching in the context of AI, including offering a Certificate in AI Pedagogies, an annual AI Intensive, and other workshops and events. There is also an active community of practice on Generative AI Pedagogies that all instructors are welcome to join.