Fudan's AI regulations stir controversy

Fudan University's introduction of a new set of regulations to control the use of artificial intelligence tools in undergraduate thesis writing has sparked heated online debates.

The policy, which includes six prohibitions and penalties, such as revoking degrees for severe violations, is believed to be the first of its kind worldwide to impose such restrictions on AI use in academic settings.

The university's move has divided opinions online. Supporters argue that AI misuse threatens academic integrity and that Fudan's policy is a pioneering effort to establish guidelines for responsible AI use.

Critics, however, question whether the regulations are too stringent in a world where AI tools are becoming increasingly essential in education.

Fudan has long focused on AI education. Earlier this year, the university announced plans to launch 100 AI-themed courses for the 2024-2025 academic year. By 2025, Fudan aims for all students to take AI courses, incorporate AI into all disciplines, and meet AI competency requirements.

The new rules, however, have raised questions about Fudan's stance on AI's role in education. The university's academic affairs office clarified that the policy is not a ban but a set of guidelines designed to ensure the responsible use of AI tools in thesis writing.

"This is not a step backward," a university representative said. "Our goal is to help students use AI in ways that enhance their work without compromising academic integrity."

The six prohibitions outlined in the regulations include banning students from using AI to generate or alter original data, experimental results, images, or thesis content such as text and acknowledgments. AI is also prohibited from being used in the thesis review process.

The regulation also explicitly bans AI tools for language polishing and translation.

"Smooth writing and clear logic are key skills we expect from undergraduates across all majors. These abilities are closely linked to creative thinking," said a university representative.

However, the policy allows AI tools to be used in certain contexts, such as helping with coding, debugging, or selecting research methods, provided they do not interfere with the student's ability to demonstrate critical thinking and innovation.

The policy was developed with input from faculty, students and ethics experts, who agreed that while AI could improve the quality of theses, it should not replace independent thought or original research. The university also cited examples of AI's limitations, including an instance where an AI model fabricated a list of essential works in mathematics.

Fudan's regulations are part of a broader trend among universities to address the challenges posed by AI in academia.

Institutions like the Communication University of China and Tianjin University of Science and Technology have also implemented policies to prevent students from using AI-generated content in theses.

Fudan University emphasized that the guidelines are not final and may be adjusted over time. "Our focus is on developing core competencies in students," the Fudan representative said. "If the role of AI evolves, we'll adapt our policies accordingly."