"GenAI: In or Out? Who Decides?"

Abstract: AI literacy has become increasingly prioritised as a student learning outcome, rationalised as necessary for professional and even academic success; this works in tandem with many educators' integrating genAI into their teaching in various ways, as well as requiring or at least encouraging students to use same. Besides the workplace-necessity rationale, such integration into teaching and learning is also seen by some as a way to influence students to use genAI ethically, that is, in ways which do not violate the principles of academic integrity (or any others). With the definition of ethical use of genAI still widely disagreed on, the moment seems perfect to allow students more, not less, choice in this respect, thus enhancing their agency but also helping ensure a more inclusive, representative technological present and future. This presentation will discuss a path forward and explore how students can make these decisions with guidance and support.