WVU launches AI literacy and academic integrity modules for faculty and students
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
Faculty and students at West Virginia University now have access to online learning modules focused on AI literacy, plagiarism, discipline, and academic integrity. The goal is simple: reduce confusion, set clear expectations, and support fair, authentic learning across courses.
According to Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education Evan Widders, the University has seen a sharp increase in academic integrity complaints tied to AI over the past two years. These modules are meant to raise AI literacy, encourage open conversations, and give faculty and students practical steps as course-level AI policies roll out.
What faculty will get
- Clear guidance to move beyond the limits of AI detectors and reduce false confidence in automated flags.
- Strategies to build "AI-resilient" assignments that produce authentic work and reward critical thinking.
- Templates and language to set and communicate course-specific AI policies that fit your learning goals.
- Fair, consistent response options for suspected unauthorized AI use, with due process in mind.
What students will learn
- How modern AI tools actually work, with plain explanations of capabilities and limits.
- Where AI can help with learning-and where it falls short or misleads.
- Privacy and ethical considerations, including how misuse can devalue a degree and create grading inequities.
Paul Heddings, director of academic integrity, noted that these resources close a gap in AI literacy. They give faculty practical support, prepare students to use AI responsibly, and create a consistent approach that should reduce academic integrity issues across the University.
Built for campus use
The modules were developed with extensive feedback from WVU stakeholders so policies and guidance align with University processes and legal considerations. The Office of Academic Integrity is working with Information Technology Services to make the materials easy to add to courses.
Access and support
Faculty and students can access the modules through University channels shared by the Office of Academic Integrity and Information Technology Services. For questions, contact Paul Heddings at paul.heddings@mail.wvu.edu.
Helpful references
- U.S. Department of Education: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning (report)
- Professional development: AI course collections by job role
