AI Skills and Tools
AI tools are evolving rapidly, allowing students to access vast sources of knowledge and explore different ideas and ways of thinking.
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools use machine learning technologies to analyze prompts, data and images and generate output, including written text, voices, pictures, videos and more. These tools can mimic humans’ ability to learn, reason, solve problems and make decisions. We are just beginning to understand how these powerful tools can be used effectively and responsibly, but as you use these technologies, never forget: AI is not human. Use AI tools to augment your human capabilities, not replace them.
- Explore tools in the AI toolbox
- Become skilled at writing AI prompts
- Learn to use AI in five different ways:
- Research, organize and summarize information
- Enhance your writing and communication skills
- Analyze complex data, uncover patterns and solve problems
- Create and express innovative ideas
- Improve your study skills
- Use AI for college activities beyond your classes
- Brush up on basic tech skills and AI terminology
Ground Rules for Your Classes
Every class has a syllabus that tells you about the plan for learning and the professor’s expectations. In many courses, professors will include rules for using AI. Read the syllabus carefully and if AI isn’t mentioned, ask the professor about it right away.
Expect that AI policies will vary between professors, courses and even by projects and class assignments. Some faculty members will encourage or even require you to use AI, while others will limit or prohibit it. Those decisions are based on the learning goals for the course. Keep track of the policies for each course and assignment so you don’t get confused.
Apply the Highest Ethical Standards When Using AI
Originality: Ensure all work submitted is your own, representing your unique voice and ideas. When permitted, you can use AI tools for help but not to do the work for you, unless your professor says it’s okay to use AI in a specific way.
Acknowledgment and attribution: Follow your professors’ and your institution’s rules for acknowledging or citing AI use. If you’re uncertain, ask about it. The APA and MLA both provide guidelines for citing generative AI work.
Data security and safety: Remember that any information you share with an AI tool is no longer private and may be used in ways you can’t control. Guard your data vigilantly – never share sensitive, personal or confidential information about yourself, others or your organization with AI systems.
Make sure you can answer "yes" to these questions
Before You Start
- My school and my professor allow the use of the AI tools I’m considering for this assignment.
- I clearly understand when and how I can use AI for this assignment.
Doing the Work
- I am using my own thoughts, words and tone of voice.
- I have checked sources generated by AI and properly cited any facts, statistics or quotes.
- I have critically analyzed the AI output and identified any false, biased or harmful information.
- I have documented where and how I used AI and cited that use according to my professor’s expectations.
- I have not used confidential, protected or copyrighted information.
When the Assignment is Complete
- I can explain my findings and demonstrate full understanding without the aid of AI.
- I can prove what sources I used and how I verified the information.
Adapted from the Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence (2025), developed by Elon University’s Imagining the Digital Future Center in partnership with American Association of Colleges and Universities. Used with permission under the Creative Commons BY-NC-SA license.
Have a Question?
Take a look at frequently asked questions about AI at NIU and available resources.