GenAI at Johnston Institute

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) at Johnston Institute

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools such as ChatGPT, DALL·E, and others are powerful technologies that can create text, images, data, and other outputs. At Johnston Institute, we recognise both the opportunities and risks of GenAI and are committed to ensuring it is used responsibly in learning, teaching, and research.

Our Approach

• We encourage the responsible use of GenAI as a supportive learning tool and for innovative teaching practices, while ensuring that academic integrity is maintained.

• We recognise that GenAI is rapidly evolving, and our policy framework is designed to balance its benefits with safeguards to protect originality, fairness, and credibility in academic work.

• GenAI-related risks are included in Johnston Institute’s overall risk management framework to ensure robust oversight.

When Students Can Use GenAI

• Not permitted by default: Students are not allowed to use GenAI for assessments (including exams) unless explicitly stated in the unit outline.

• Permitted in some tasks: If use of GenAI is allowed, the instructions will specify how and to what extent it can be used. Students must:

  • Acknowledge the use of GenAI in their work.

  • Reference the name of the tool, date accessed, input prompts, and (if available) sources it generated.

  • Ensure that their submission contains their own original work supported by credible academic sources.

When Students Cannot Use GenAI

GenAI must not be used for:

• Completing entire or significant parts of an assessment.

• Applications for admission, recognition of prior learning (RPL), academic appeals, or grievances.

• Submitting personal information (e.g., passport, bank details) into AI tools, as this may risk data theft or misuse.

Staff Responsibilities

• All academic staff will receive professional development on:

  • How to effectively integrate GenAI into curriculum and assessment.

  • Detecting academic misconduct involving GenAI.

• Staff are expected to support students in developing critical thinking and originality skills, reducing over-reliance on AI.

Academic Integrity and GenAI

• Misuse of GenAI is treated as academic misconduct under the Academic Integrity and Misconduct Policy.

• Online examinations are monitored using proctoring software to safeguard against GenAI misuse.

• Students found to be in breach may face penalties ranging from a warning to suspension or exclusion, depending on the severity.