Inevitable or preventable? The wild west of AI use at WWU

There is a notable division in how professors at Western Washington University are incorporating or restricting the use of artificial intelligence (AI), reflecting the university’s approach of giving faculty the autonomy to decide.
The university lacks overarching AI policies, which Provost Brad Johnson argues is beneficial because AI’s impact varies widely by discipline. A nascent AI Task Force is forming in the Provost’s Office.
By default, generative AI is not permitted in coursework unless explicitly allowed, aligning with academic honor policies. This hands-off approach aims to assess and address AI’s impact locally.
In a bid to mitigate AI use, some professors, like Xi Wang, have increased emphasis on handwritten assignments and in-class discussions.
Some departments, like marketing, actively embrace AI in teaching and practice, viewing AI as a collaborator that augments but does not replace human expertise.
Caroline Hardin, a computer science professor, insists that students must master coding fundamentals before utilizing AI tools, to prevent reliance without understanding.
The university is exploring AI’s impacts through various discussion groups, focusing on ethical, environmental, and educational implications.
Students encounter varied policies on AI use, from strict bans on any AI assistance to encouraging AI in specific formats, depending on the professor and course.