Student use of generative AI as a composing process supplement: Concerns for intellectual property and academic honesty

Abstract

This article discusses the nuanced challenges of using Generative Artificial Intelligence in multimodal compositions while maintaining an ethical adherence to ideas of academic honesty and intellectual property. Through examining hypothetical scenarios, we can see that multimodality complicates the concept of “fair use” in academic contexts, since image or audio generation via AI functions differently than text generated by a Large Language Model. In thinking through the case studies, the article presents an argument for how educators can still use Generative AI in their multimodal composition assignments, through teaching students to us it as a process supplement and to always be critically aware of their citational responsibilities. This understanding of Generative AI use is placed in conversation with our understanding of intellectual property law as relates to both the classroom and broader digital composing environments, to better prepare students to create texts in their future careers.