About Generative AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to machine systems designed to mimic human cognitive functions, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot) is a specific subset of AI trained on vast amounts of existing data (such as text, music, or images). Unlike traditional AI, which categorizes or predicts data, Generative AI uses that training to create entirely new content—such as emails, artwork, podcasts, or lesson plans—based on user prompts. These models are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are frequently integrated with established AI technologies. While these models offer significant technological potential, they also present complex ethical, legal, and intellectual implications that require careful consideration. For more information on the applications and limitations of generative AI within education, see the Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education LibGuide.

Using Generative AI in Relay Coursework

Relay believes that when used ethically and responsibly, generative tools AI can be used to support instructional planning and decision-making that are responsive to diverse student needs and promote equitable outcomes for Birth–Grade 12 students. Because these tools have known limitations and potential biases, Relay encourages thoughtful and critical engagement if using generative AI in coursework. Our goal is to empower students in their decisions about whether or not to use generative AI tools so that the technology supports, but never replaces, their own critical thinking and professional judgment. 

Relay Student Guidelines for Responsible AI Usage

When a Relay assignment allows for inclusion of material from an external source (e.g., material from published or school-based curricula), students can also consider the use of generative AI tools, so long as they adhere to the best practice guidelines below, including checks and edits of AI output. Students may also use AI to offer revision suggestions on original work or to break down a task (see Using AI as a Writing Support). When in doubt about the types of AI usage that are appropriate for an assignment, students should always consult directly with their professor. 

In addition, Relay students should consider the following guidelines when using AI:

• Check your employer’s policy on AI. Different schools, districts, and networks have different policies on the use of AI. Before you use any AI tool, be sure you know and follow any applicable policies from your employer, in addition to Relay’s policies listed here.
• Protect student privacy. Never share any personally identifiable information about your students with AI (e.g., student names, email addresses, etc.) unless you have verified that the tool complies with FERPA and any other applicable laws related to student privacy and data.
• Protect intellectual property. Many AI tools use information that you put in to train the AI itself (e.g., information you add into the AI can be used in its future responses to anyone). As such, copyright-protected work, including Relay class materials (e.g., slides, assessment materials, course readings, and videos) should not be provided to any AI tools without permission from the copyright holder, unless fair use or another copyright exemption applies (see Relay's Copyright Infringement policy).
• Keep the limitations of the specific AI tool in mind. Before you use any AI tool, research its limitations. Common limitations include the use of outdated and/or biased information in algorithms and the potential for the provision of inaccurate and/or biased information through the tool’s output.
• Evaluate and edit what you get from an AI tool. Because of the limitations above, you should never take and use output from AI without editing it. 
• If a student uses AI for a Relay assignment, they must adhere to Relay's academic integrity policy and cite (i.e., APA citation) or otherwise disclose their use of the tool. The majority of a submitted assignment should be students’ original work. 

For more support for Relay students on how to effectively use, evaluate, and disclose the use of Generative AI, see the Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education LibGuide.