Case Studies

Faculty – Defining Allowable Uses of GenAI & Syllabus Language

Strategy: Utilizing GenAI to inform the allowable uses of GenAI and create a more “learner-centered” syllabus. 

Dr. Cynthia Patterson used ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini to assist in crafting her syllabus for Introduction to Literary Methodology, an entry-level course for declared English majors and minors. She leveraged these platforms to assist in providing recommendations for the allowable uses of GenAI within the course. Additionally, she employed these tools to update the syllabus language, making it more "learner-centered." 

Instructor Insights and Recommendations:

  • Between the three GenAI platforms (ChatGPT3.5, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini), I found Microsoft Copilot to be most effective in providing what I needed.  
  • GenAI is poised to significantly impact the future of this course and the entire discipline of writing. Examples include 
    • Exploration of Literary Styles and Themes: Students can use generative AI tools to analyze various literary styles, such as Romanticism, Modernism, or Gothic literature.  
    • Ethical Considerations and Authorship: Discussions around GenAI raise questions about authorship and originality. Who owns the generated content? Is it the programmer, the AI model, or both? Students can also consider the use of resources necessary to GenAI production: human/labor resources; structural (data storage) and natural (water/electricity, land use) resources. Students can engage in healthy debates about ethics, creativity, authenticity, and the role of human agency in literary production.