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Non-academic prompts for generative AI

Experiment with non-academic prompts for generative AI, to sidestep concerns about plagiarism and academic integrity.

There is too much noise about the potential of generative AI to support cheating and plagiarism. Which is why I wanted to share few examples of low-stakes experiments for anyone interested in generative AI but who is nervous about getting started in a higher education context.

One of the recurring challenges I’ve noticed among my academic colleagues is the initial difficulty in crafting effective prompts. In these contexts they approach AI with the same mindset as they would a traditional search engine, leading to less than satisfying interactions. To bridge this gap, it’s beneficial to engage with the AI in a more relaxed, everyday context, away from the high-stakes environment of academia.

To help familiarise yourself with the unique capabilities of generative AI, I’ve been recommending a simple exercise: use the AI for everyday, practical tasks. This can help shift your focus from academic concerns like plagiarism and assessment integrity to understanding the AI’s conversational nature.

Here are some examples of non-academic prompts that can be used to explore the potential of generative AI:

  • Exercise regime for a time-constrained student. “Suggest a weekly exercise plan for a university student with limited time, space, and budget? My goal is to maintain fitness without the need for gym equipment.”
  • Prepare a shopping list. “Prepare a shopping list for a week-long vegetarian meal plan that is budget-friendly. Make it suitable for someone with basic cooking skills. Include a variety of nutrients and flavours.”
  • Housekeeping tips for first-time students. “Give me some essential housekeeping tips and a weekly schedule for students living away from home for the first time. The focus should be on simplicity and efficiency.”

This exercise serves two purposes:

  1. It familiarises users with the art of prompt crafting, encouraging them to be specific, conversational, and clear in their requests.
  2. It shifts the mindset from viewing generative AI as a tool for just academic pursuits to understanding its broader capabilities in everyday problem-solving.

I believe that generative AI is more than an academic resource. Ignoring it’s potential for supporting a wide range of student support activities, is a missed opportunity.

Develop a practical understanding of how to integrate generative AI into your academic workflow, enhancing your productivity and creativity across various aspects of your scholarly practice.

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If you believe in the goal of trying to shift academic culture towards a state of calm productivity, and you’d like to do something to help sustain the project, you can buy me a coffee. Or you can share a link to the online courses with anyone you think would appreciate it.


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