Augustana College (SD) AI Policy

2. Clearly communicate to students when and how AI is acceptable for use in coursework

3. Update course policies to address AI use in alignment with academic honesty expectations

To cheat on an assignment is:

1. to use materials or sources explicitly forbidden by the instructor in completing the assignment (including the ideas and work of other students when forbidden);

To cheat on an exam is:

1. to use books, notes, or other materials not explicitly permitted by the instructor in taking the exam;

Promote information literacy and understanding of AI systems to help make informed decisions about AI implementation and use

Maintain a healthy skepticism and "trust but verify" approach to AI systems and their outputs

1. Consider how AI tools can enhance rather than replace meaningful learning experiences

4. Explore how AI literacy can be integrated into your discipline

In the pedagogical and co-curricular contexts, AI should be deployed in ways that maximize student experiences, learning and future opportunities. To that end we will support faculty and staff that desire to integrate AI in their teaching, mentorship, student affairs, and research to:

Transparency is expected when AI systems are used; be transparent about this use when sharing outputs.

* Consider transparency and whether the use of this system requires disclosure

Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Use of direct wording, artistic creations and/or expressions (written or musical) without proper acknowledgements

2. False Citation: incorrect or inadequate citation of sources

For first offense, minor violations of the Honor Code, submit the Minor First Offense Form. (Before submitting a minor first offense, please get in touch with Patrick Crawford or Greg Domski to confirm the violation qualifies.)

For all other violations, submit the Honor Council Reporting Form.

Every member of the Augustana community has the obligation to report violations of the Honor Code to the Honor Council.

In addition, a Professor may elect to require a student to include the statement, “In compliance with the Augustana Honor Code, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this piece of work.” on all academic work or sign a similar statement at the beginning of the term, but this elective step is not required to enforce the pledge.

To that end we will support faculty and staff that desire to integrate AI in their teaching, mentorship, student affairs, and research to:

* Leverage AI to support interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for success as impactful leaders

* Introduce AI tools that expand skill-building opportunities while ensuring students develop abilities that align with employer needs

* Implement AI tools that strengthen student support networks and build confidence while preserving meaningful human connections

4. Maintain appropriate human involvement in all AI-augmented processes

1. Consider how AI tools can enhance rather than replace meaningful learning experiences

2. Clearly communicate to students when and how AI is acceptable for use in coursework

3. Update course policies to address AI use in alignment with academic honesty expectations

Do not share sensitive information with an AI system unless you are certain it is secure. Remember, our obligations to protect the privacy of information (including student information under FERPA) applies when we share information outside of the College.

"Sensitive information" includes but is not limited to Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as names, demographic data, geographic data, biological data, etc.

1. Prioritize AI systems with transparent functionality and data handling practices

2. Evaluate AI vendors' commitment to privacy, security, and ethical use

* How might it impact data privacy and security, especially with regard to sensitive information?

* What sensitive data will be provided? (Note: Sensitive data includes but is not limited to: Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as names, demographic data, geographic data, biological data, etc.; and intellectual property information)

* Vendor must contractually agree to handle all data in accordance with any applicable privacy laws and regulations

Augustana will embrace AI technology while emphasizing human intelligence and human relationships, creating a balanced ecosystem where technological innovation enhances human capabilities. Our vision for AI integration is anchored to our mission and seeks to maximize positive outcomes while maintaining the core values of our community.

We will:

* Pursue evolving best practices in AI governance, ethics, and deployment

In September 2024, President Talentino appointed a task force to identify what Augustana College needed to do to leverage the benefits of artificial intelligence and minimize the risks. The AI Readiness Task Force recommended the adoption of these guidelines and resources to provide the Augustana community with an understanding of how AI can and should be used, and the expectations regarding procurement of AI systems.

The Task Force's recommendations were largely accepted by Cabinet in Fall 2025, after which these resources were introduced to the Augustana Community and the Augustana College Board of Trustees.

When requesting the procurement of an AI system for use by Augustana employees in an official role, you will be asked to complete the following assessment in written form, to be submitted to the procurement director for approval.

* Pilot testing & evaluation: Upon approval from the review team, consider implementing in limited scope with clear metrics. Assess outcomes against established metrics.

* Documentation & guidelines: Create system-specific guidelines for users. Generate appropriate training materials where relevant.

* Ongoing review: Regularly reassess effectiveness and alignment with institutional values.