Introduction: Setting Ground Rules
As a teacher, you know that banning AI completely is becoming impossible. Students are already using tools like ChatGPT and Snapchat's My AI. The challenge isn't stopping them—it's guiding them.
A "Student Pledge" is a powerful way to set the tone. It moves the conversation from "Don't do this" to "Here is how we do this responsibly." By having students sign a simple agreement, you create a shared understanding of what is helpful (tutoring, brainstorming) and what is harmful (cheating, bullying).
Below is a simple, copy-and-paste pledge you can use in your classroom today.
The Student AI Pledge
Instructions: Copy the text below into a document, print it out, and have your students sign it at the start of the term or before a major project.
📝 My AI Pledge: Responsible Technology Use
I promise to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool to help me learn, not as a shortcut to avoid thinking.
I agree to the following 5 rules:
1. I Will Be Honest
[ ] I will not copy and paste text from an AI and hand it in as my own work.
[ ] If I use AI to brainstorm or edit, I will tell my teacher by citing it (e.g., "Assisted by ChatGPT").
2. I Will Be a Fact-Checker
[ ] I know that AI tools can "hallucinate" and make up false facts.
[ ] I promise to verify any dates, names, or quotes the AI gives me using a textbook or reliable website.
3. I Will Protect My Privacy
[ ] I will never type my full name, address, phone number, or passwords into an AI chatbot.
[ ] I will not upload photos of myself or my friends to public AI tools.
4. I Will Think for Myself
[ ] I will use AI to explain hard concepts or check my grammar, but the final ideas and words will be mine.
[ ] I will not let an algorithm replace my unique voice and creativity.
5. I Will Respect Others
[ ] I will never use AI to create mean, fake, or bullying content about other students or teachers.
[ ] I will use technology to build people up, not tear them down.
Student Name: ____________________________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________________
Date: __________________________
How to Use This in Your Classroom
Discuss It First: Don't just hand it out. Read through each point with your class. Ask them why they think privacy matters or why AI might lie about facts.
Customize It: Every classroom is different. You might want to add a specific rule about which tools are allowed (e.g., "Only use Khanmigo or Socratic").
Revisit It: If you assign a research paper, remind students of Rule #2 (Fact-Checking). If you assign a creative writing task, remind them of Rule #4 (Thinking for Yourself).
Conclusion
Helping students navigate the world of AI is a big job, but you don't have to do it alone. Organizations like TeachAI and Common Sense Media offer excellent guidelines to help schools stay ahead of the curve.
By setting these boundaries early, you empower your students to become smart, ethical users of technology, a skill they will need for the rest of their lives.
