Using AI to support learning

ChatGPT, Google Gemini, DeepL and other familiar artificial intelligence (AI) applications available online are based on large language models. More recently, language models have evolved to the point where they can produce human-like text and conversations.

They can also correct and transform text at such a high level that it can be difficult to distinguish the final result from human-generated text. In the future, more such models are sure to emerge and their functionalities will continue to evolve. It is therefore important that we take their existence into account in teaching and research.

The University encourages degree programmes and teachers to use AI in their teaching. This way, we can prepare you for a society of the future where AI methods are likely to be widely used as part of professional work.

As AI brings new possibilities for producing text whose origin and reliability is unclear and may contain errors, it’s important to use them in a controlled and deliberate way. The teacher can restrict the use of AI in situations where using it would not promote your learning.

If you are unsure of whether you can use AI to support completing a task, you can always ask the teacher before you get to work.

1. Large language models can, as a rule, be used in teaching and as a support for writing. The teacher for the course has the final call on the topic. If there’s a risk that the use of large language models impedes achieving the set learning objectives, the teacher can prohibit the use of AI (independent work included).
2. The use of large language models must be indicated as defined by course teachers and in accordance with
   the principles of research integrity. This also applies to theses. Large language models cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the language or content – you are responsible for the content of the assignments you submit.
3. The use of language models is not permitted in maturity tests.
4. Your home faculty, degree programme, or the University Language Centre can make additional guidelines on the use of large language models in their teaching.
5. The use of large language models on courses must be primarily based on the services provided by the
   University. The accessibility and information security of services must be kept in mind when using large
   language models. You cannot be required to use services other than those provided by the University.
6. If you use a large language model in a course, part of a course or examination where it is prohibited in advance, please note that this constitutes cheating and will be treated in the same way as other cases of cheating and plagiarism. The same rules if you fail to report the use of a language model as instructed.

When using AI, always try to be precise and follow your teacher's instructions!

In addition to the University guidelines, the use of AI in teaching and learning is governed by the ethical guidelines set by the European Commission. The guidelines, available on the EU Publication Office website, are aimed especially for teachers, but taking a look at them can also be useful to students.

The University of Helsinki has two generative AI services, CurreChat developed at the University and Micorosoft's Copilot with commercial data protection. Copilot is available without restriction to to University of Helsinki students. CurreChat is available to students in courses where the teacher has enabled it. 

For more information on the differences between the services and on security, see the IT HelpDesk guide Generative AI at the University.

The Guidelines for the use of AI in teaching at the University of Helsinki (pdf) were confirmed by the Academic Affairs Council on May 30, 2024. Please note that they may be further specified in the light of future regulation and technological developments.

If you have questions on the guidelines, you can contact the Strategic Services for Teaching: ospa@helsinki.fi.