AI in teaching – where to look for guidance and information

A picture of a person holding an I-pad

Common questions regarding AI include what is allowed, where to find reliable guidance, and what to communicate to students. We also face a key challenge: how do we encourage students to think independently and use AI thoughtfully?

Aalto provides guidance and information to help you incorporate AI into teaching and learning.

Guidance for the use of AI

At Aalto University, the use of AI-based technologies is allowed as a support for teaching and learning unless instructed otherwise by the teacher of the course. The teacher may decide on restrictions on the use of technology on a course- or task-specific basis if achieving the learning objectives of the course requires it.

Guidance for the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning at Aalto University | Aalto University

Course communication

Communicate early how and why AI will be used in your course. Base any restrictions on the course learning objectives. Note that students may not always know whether the software they are using is AI-powered.

MyCourses has ready-made Label elements, which teachers can use to easily communicate with students about the ways artificial intelligence should be used in relation to individual assignments or course section.

This page provides a detailed description on how labels can be used and tips on how teachers can incorporate the use of artificial intelligence in their teaching.

Tips for teachers on using artificial intelligence in teaching | Aalto University

AI self-study material for teachers: “Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning”

This online resource introduces the basics of generative AI, explains its safe and ethical use, and helps you get started with the Aalto AI Assistant.

Course: Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning | MyCourses

Aalto AI Assistant

The Aalto AI Assistant is a chat-based application powered by the same language models as ChatGPT. You can use it for translations, refining text, generating content, brainstorming, and more.

Aalto AI Assistant | Aalto University

AI-resistant assignments

To promote critical thinking and learning, design assignments that require human interaction and original thought, reducing the temptation to rely on AI. Consider incorporating hands-on experiments, design projects, scenario-based questions, and open-ended problem-solving. Foster discussions about academic integrity and a constructive feedback culture. Ask students to explain the reasoning behind their answers.

Referencing AI

AI should be referenced similarly to other academic sources. The teacher may require details such as the AI’s name, version, publisher, URL, and a description of how it was used.

Tips for using artificial intelligence for students | Aalto University

AI in assessment

The guidelines for using AI in assessments at Aalto have not yet been defined (16.9.2025). For the time being, AI use is not permitted, including for student peer evaluation. Human grading maintains educational integrity, as language models predict words without evaluating the quality of thought, logic, or alignment with learning objectives.

Guidance for the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning at Aalto University | Aalto University

Use of AI detection tools

Aalto University permits the use of Turnitin AI detection tool but strongly advises reliance on human expertise. The Turnitin AI detection tool, along with other similar tools, exhibits variable accuracy and may incorrectly identify student work.

Turnitin, an originality checking and feedback software | Aalto University