Generative AI Resources
Generative AI—including tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot—is widely used in higher education, both productively and as a means of academic dishonesty. One concern is students submitting AI-generated content as their own work. AI detection tools exist to help identify this, but accuracy varies significantly across tools and continues to shift as the technology evolves.
AI detectors are not a definitive solution. They cannot be relied on for conclusive results and should be considered one component of a thorough, faculty-led review process that includes direct conversation with students.
APSU faculty considering AI writing detection should use Turnitin, which is a contracted tool with APSU and supports institutional accessibility and privacy standards. The guidance below covers how Turnitin's AI detection works and how to incorporate it thoughtfully into your courses.
Turnitin AI Writing Detection
Turnitin's AI detection goes beyond flagging likely AI-generated text — it also identifies text that appears to have been paraphrased using AI or a word-spinning tool. Faculty can access this feature directly within Turnitin Feedback Studio.
According to Turnitin's AI Writing Detection FAQ:
"Turnitin's AI writing detection indicator shows the percentage of text that has likely been generated by an AI writing tool while the report highlights the exact segments that seem to be AI-written. The final decision on whether any misconduct has occurred rests with the reviewer/instructor. Turnitin does not make a determination of misconduct, rather it provides data for the educators to make an informed decision based on their academic and institutional policies."
"We must emphasize that the percentage on the AI writing indicator should not be used as the sole basis for action or a definitive grading measure by instructors."
"Turnitin's AI writing & paraphrasing features provide data and insight to enable educators to start a formative conversation with their students in conjunction with their academic misconduct policies."
Because this technology changes frequently, the links below point directly to Turnitin's own resources, which are updated regularly:
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Turnitin AI Writing Detection Frequently Asked Questions — Essential reading before using the tool, including what document types qualify for detection
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More AI Turnitin Resources — Includes a rubric to help review and revise writing prompts to discourage AI misuse
Key Recordings for Success
Putting AI Writing Detectors in Context
AI detectors are appealing, but they are not a standalone solution to unwanted AI use in student writing—they are one data point. Instructional technology staff from Distance Education discuss this concept, explore the other pieces of the AI puzzle, walk through the Turnitin AI Writing indicator you have access to, and address how to raise concerns with students constructively.
Watch Putting AI Writing Detectors in Context
Academic Integrity in the Classroom: Similarity & AI Indication in the Formative Space
Turnitin's Similarity Report and AI writing indicator are best used to inform instructor judgment, not serve as the sole measure of academic integrity. Megan Sexton, APSU's Turnitin Customer Success Manager, focuses on how both reports work, how they differ from each other, and how to guide productive conversations with students about the writing process.
Resources for Discussing Results with Students
Approaching a Student Regarding Potential AI Misuse
Discussion Starters for Tough Conversations About AI
Resource Overview for Educators Seeking Solutions to Foster Learning Integrity