AI in Education at Cardiff University

 Written by Marianna Majzonova and Geraint Evans (LTA) with Rebecca Mogg (ULS) 

As the University continues to explore the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, we have been supporting the great practice already happening across our learning and teaching community.  

AI is now part of our everyday lives, study and work. We are no longer asking whether to use AI but how to use it effectively and responsibly.  

Our aim is to ensure that Cardiff University remains at the forefront of inclusive and innovative responses to AI in education.  

Working with colleagues in the AI in Education Group, we have published updated staff guidance on the use of AI in education, now available on the intranet. This resource offers practical advice, examples, and considerations for integrating AI into teaching and learning in a responsible and pedagogically sound way. 

We have also worked with students to create new guidance to support them in the ethical and responsible use of generative AI technologies as part of their learning experience. This approach is informed by sector-wide standards, including the Russell Group’s principles on the use of generative AI in education.  

What next? 

We are planning to co-create further resources with students to better reflect their specific uses of AI tools for their studies and to capture their perspectives, exploring the ways they can support learning and academic work. All of this using validated and trusted sources, of course.  

In the meantime, please encourage students to complete the Academic Integrity module in their Learning Central Organisations. The module includes content on using generative AI in the context of academic integrity. By completing the module, students develop their understanding of honest, ethical and responsible conduct when submitting academic work.  

For our colleagues, we’re also developing an online version of the popular AI and productivity in the workplace workshop, designed to help staff build confidence and competence in using AI tools effectively and ethically in their day-to-day work. 

Final thoughts 

Cardiff University is encouraging the use of AI to enhance teaching and learning through digital platforms like Blackboard Ultra and Mentimeter (watch this space for another blog about AI tools in Mentimeter!). These tools are increasingly integrating AI features that support personalised learning, streamline feedback, and create more engaging, interactive experiences for students and staff. We want our students to use AI tools as scaffolding, not as an alternative or complete replacement for learning. We want our students to understand what is permitted and what is not and we want them to become confident users of these tools, acknowledging GenAI assistance.  

We want our colleagues to lead by example, protect transparency and authenticity in assessment design, apply human-centred approach and ethical mind to module design.  

As we continue to explore further and enhance our guidance, it’s clear that AI is here to stay. As Dr. Charles Knight says: “AI expands what’s possible, but not what’s purposeful”, which opens the door to our collective strengths and human skills.  

Get in touch 

The Learning and Teaching Academy support staff with Digital Education and host a program of Continuous Professional Development courses for staff. Take a look at the courses or contact us on ltacademy@cardiff.ac.uk.