Core Values
Principles to Guide Your AI Use
These principles are not just rules — they are habits that will help you use AI thoughtfully throughout your academic career and beyond. They reflect the University of Utah's commitment to integrity, innovation, and student success. Each principle connects to the University's core AI framework, which your college and department may build upon with discipline-specific guidance.
You Come First, Not the AI
AI as a Learning Support
AI is here to support you, not take over. Think of it as a tool that helps you do better work, not a replacement for your own thinking and expertise.
You Own Your Work
Human Accountability & Ownership
Whatever you submit is yours, and you are responsible for it. That means reviewing, editing, and making sure AI-generated content reflects your understanding, your voice, and aligns with assignment goals.
Creativity is Still Yours
Academic Integrity & Originality
AI can help generate ideas, but your knowledge, experience, and imagination are what make your work original. Originality is defined by your intellectual contribution, not by the absence of tools.
Communicate Honestly
Ethical Use & Data Protection
Use AI responsibly and never to mislead others or spread false information. Protect personal and confidential information when using AI tools. Being upfront about how you use AI builds trust with your instructors and peers.
Always Verify
Verification & Critical Evaluation
AI can help you gather and organize information, but it is not a substitute for checking the facts yourself. If you include it in your work, make sure it is accurate.
Watch for Plagiarism
Academic Integrity & Originality
AI-generated content can sometimes include material that closely mirrors existing sources. Review and revise what AI produces to make sure your work is original and properly attributed.
Be Transparent
Transparency & Disclosure
When you use AI in meaningful ways, say so. Being open about your process builds credibility and helps maintain trust in academic and professional settings.
"At the University of Utah, AI is treated as a tool, not as a source of truth, authority,
or authorship.
You remain responsible for anything you submit as your work."
— University of Utah AI Guidelines