AI use levels for schools and assignments

Quick answer

AI use levels give teachers a shared 1-4 scale: Level 1 means no AI, Level 2 means limited planning support, Level 3 means guided AI help with teacher visibility, and Level 4 means full AI collaboration with disclosure.

Level 1: no AI

Use this when the assignment is assessing independent recall, handwriting, live discussion, in-class writing, or a skill students must demonstrate without AI support.

• State that AI is not allowed for this task.
• Explain what students should do if they are stuck.
• Use only when the restriction has a learning purpose.

Level 2: planning or brainstorming only

Students may use AI to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, or make a study plan, but the final work must come from the student.

• Allow outlines, questions, or vocabulary help.
• Do not allow full draft generation.
• Ask students to note how AI helped.

Level 3 and 4: guided support or collaboration

At Level 3, AI can coach, quiz, and explain while teachers retain visibility. At Level 4, AI can be a full collaborator when students disclose the role it played.

• Use Level 3 for tutoring, practice, and revision feedback.
• Use Level 4 for AI literacy, media projects, or explicit collaboration tasks.
• Require disclosure for meaningful AI assistance.

How to use the scale

• Pick the level before assigning work
• Explain why that level fits the task
• Give examples of allowed support
• Give examples of disallowed shortcuts
• Set disclosure expectations
• Keep teacher visibility available for AI-supported levels

Frequently asked questions

Why use AI levels instead of one policy?

Different assignments measure different skills. AI levels let teachers match AI permissions to the learning goal instead of relying on a vague all-or-nothing rule.

Should students disclose AI use?

Yes, when AI meaningfully supports the work. Disclosure helps students build honest habits and gives teachers better context for feedback.