Tsinghua University announced a comprehensive framework for the use of artificial intelligence in education, emphasizing the prohibition of using artificial intelligence for ghostwriting, plagiarism, fabrication and other misconduct of graduate students. The guidelines position teachers and students as the main actors in education, and AI as a supporting tool.
Graduate students are reminded that AI cannot replace academic training or intellectual labor that must be completed independently. Supervisors are required to provide clear guidance on the use of AI and maintain oversight to ensure academic integrity and originality.
The guidelines require adequate disclosure of the use of AI, prohibit academic misconduct, and prohibit the use of sensitive or unauthorized data in AI models. It calls for caution against AI “hallucinations” and emphasizes verification from multiple sources to prevent cognitive complacency due to reliance on AI.
Instructors are responsible for determining the use of AI according to course goals, explaining the principles to students, and overseeing the AI-generated materials. You are encouraged to guide students toward a critical understanding of AI and help them develop essential competencies.
Students are encouraged to explore AI as an aid within the scope of their courses, but are prohibited from submitting text, code, or output generated by AI as their own work.
The development of the guidelines followed extensive research and consultation led by Professor Li Manli from Tsinghua University’s School of Education. This includes a global survey of 70 AI education documents from 25 universities and interviews with over 100 students and instructors.
Based on Tsinghua University’s experience with AI in education, the guidelines support the integration of AI into more than 390 courses across 10 disciplines, including AI learning companions and teaching assistants.
Wang Shuaiguo, director of the university’s Online Education Center and an original drafter, said the guidelines are a “living system” meant to evolve with technology. He emphasized that innovation should not be restricted, but should grow with technological advances.
The guidelines also encourage the application of innovative AI in teaching and learning, and the recognition and promotion of exemplary practices. It establishes “red lines” against misconduct, while emphasizing “green lights” for responsible and meaningful experimentation.
“I hope this doesn’t become a document that limits innovation,” Wang said. “It should be a living system, and it should continue to grow as technology evolves.”
