THE University of Cumbria has made its thoughts on the use of AI clear, as more and more students across the country turn to computer-generated content in their studies.

Earlier this week, a university student spoke with the BBC after she used AI to 'cheat' when she was stressed with deadlines.

Some universities have imposed a total ban on the tool, which can produce articulate and 'well-researched' essays at the touch of a button.

However, the University of Cumbria allows its use, so long as it is correctly referenced.

On its website, the guidelines on AI usage are clear. It states: "Like lots of universities, University of Cumbria is exploring the opportunities and challenges of using generative AI. 

"Work submitted for assessment that has been created by AI without permission or acknowledgement, will be classed as malpractice and the academic regulations apply."

Many would agree that AI is going to be a significant part of working life in the future, and that training students in how to use it as an educational aid, rather than anything more, is now a vital part of university life. 

Amid growing concerns about the evolution of AI, which might eventually be able to outwit the systems that universities use to detect it, the University of Cumbria has outlined its standpoint on AI. 

A University of Cumbria spokesperson said: “University of Cumbria has developed staff and student guidance of AI explaining how it can be useful, how it can be used legitimately and how it should not be used.

"This also provides students with the risks associated with AI, including ethical considerations, data security and accuracy considerations.

"The university’s academic malpractice regulations explicitly reference AI, with the unattributed use of content created by AI being considered as ‘cheating’”.