Introduction
Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University School of Foreign Languages recognizes the transformative potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools in education, while also acknowledging the importance of responsible and ethical implementation. This policy aims to guide the use of GenAI by SFL academic staff and students, balancing innovation with academic integrity and ethical considerations. While Türkiye currently lacks specific legislation directly addressing artificial intelligence, this policy is informed by existing legal frameworks relevant to AI use, including those highlighted by the Council of Higher Education in their "Ethics Guide of Generative Artificial Intelligence Use in the Scientific Research and Publication Process of Higher Education Institutions." These include, but are not limited to, Law No. 6698 on the Protection of Personal Data, Law No. 2547 on Higher Education, Law No. 5846 on Intellectual and Artistic Works, the Graduate Education and Examination Regulations, and the Higher Education Institutions Scientific Research and Publication Ethics Directive. This policy is further established in alignment with:
- The Presidential Circular No. 2021/18 regarding the "National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2021-2025"
- The regulations and policies of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University
Definition of GenAI
Generative AI refers to a class of artificial intelligence algorithms capable of creating new content, including text, images, audio, code, and more, by learning patterns and structures from existing data. Examples of GenAI tools include, but are not limited to, ChatGPT, Bard, DALL-E, DeepSeek, and various code generation platforms. This definition will be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect advancements in GenAI technology.
Guiding Principles
The SFL's approach to GenAI is anchored in the following principles:
- Responsible Use: GenAI should be used ethically, promoting academic integrity, enhancing learning, and respecting intellectual property rights.
- Transparency: The use of GenAI tools must be disclosed appropriately, ensuring clarity about the extent of AI involvement.
- Critical Evaluation: Users are responsible for critically evaluating AI-generated outputs, recognizing potential inaccuracies, biases, or plagiarism.
- Human Oversight: GenAI serves to augment, not replace, human intellect. Human oversight and critical thinking are essential.
- Continuous Learning: The SFL fosters ongoing dialogue and education regarding the ethical and effective use of GenAI.
- Data Privacy: Protecting the privacy of student and faculty data used in AI-related activities. Adherence to data protection regulations is mandatory.
- Bias Mitigation: Recognizing that AI algorithms can perpetuate or amplify existing biases. Efforts should be made to critically evaluate AI outputs for potential bias and to use AI tools in ways that promote equity and inclusion.
- Intellectual Property: Respecting intellectual property rights when using AI-generated content. Proper attribution and licensing are essential.
- Explainability: Where possible, making AI-driven decisions explainable. This fosters trust and understanding.
- Accessibility: Striving to ensure that AI tools and resources are accessible to all members of the SFL community, including those with disabilities.
Instructor Agency and the Use of AI
Instructors play a critical role in guiding the responsible use of AI in the classroom. Their agency includes:
- Curriculum Integration: Determining how AI tools can be effectively integrated into the curriculum to enhance learning outcomes.
- Assessment Design: Designing assessments that evaluate students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills, even when AI tools are used.
- Ethical Guidance: Providing students with clear guidance on the ethical use of AI and fostering discussions about the implications of AI in education and society.
- Transparency and Disclosure: Being transparent about their own use of AI tools in teaching and research.
- Professional Development: Engaging in professional development opportunities to stay informed about advancements in AI and best practices for its use in education.
Student Agency and the Use of AI in Learning
Students also have agency in how they engage with AI tools for learning:
- Critical Consumption: Developing the ability to critically evaluate AI-generated content and recognize its limitations.
- Ethical Use: Using AI tools responsibly and ethically, respecting academic integrity and intellectual property rights.
- Self-Directed Learning: Leveraging AI tools to support their own learning goals and develop their self-directed learning skills.
- Feedback and Input: Providing feedback on the effectiveness of AI tools and resources in the learning process.
AI in the Learning Experience
AI can enhance the learning experience in various ways:
- Personalized Learning: AI can help personalize learning experiences by adapting to individual student needs and providing tailored feedback.
- Enhanced Content Creation: AI tools can assist students in creating and editing written work, presentations, and other learning materials.
- Language Development: AI-powered tools can provide personalized feedback on language skills and offer opportunities for practice.
- Accessibility: AI can improve accessibility for students with disabilities through tools like text-to-speech and language translation.
However, it's crucial to remember that AI should complement, not replace, human interaction and the development of essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
University Regulations
This policy is subject to and must be interpreted in accordance with the regulations and policies of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University.