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A values‑led approach to Generative AI in learning and teaching
A values‑led approach to Generative AI in learning and teaching
At Ulster University, our approach to Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in learning and teaching practice is guided by our institutional strategy, People, Place and Partnership: Delivering Sustainable Futures for All, our Principles and Qualities of Learning, Teaching and the Student Experience, and the Graduate Attributes .
GenAI does not redefine what excellent education looks like at Ulster. Rather, it sharpens our focus on what matters most: people, relationships, inclusion, authenticity and academic integrity.
Strategic position
In this context, GenAI should:
- Support inclusive access and the development of GenAi literacy for all students.
- Enhance active thinking rather than replace it.
- Strengthen feedback, dialogue and staff–student relationships.
- Protect student confidence, integrity and wellbeing.
We affirm that learning is fundamentally a social relational activity, rooted in vibrant campus communities.
GenAI should
*Complement, not displace collaborative, community-based active learning
*Support peer interaction
*Be integrated in ways that reinforces a shared learning environment
Our strategy emphasises collaboration within the University and with employers, communities and global partners.
Responsible engagement with GenAI authentically prepares students to participate ethically and confidently in professional and civic contexts. Clear expectations, transparency and research-informed practice remain essential.
Where GenAi is part of the academic toolkit, our graduate attributes, (critical thinking, digital fluency, ethical awareness, collaboration, creativity and global citizenship), become even more important.
Ulster graduates must be able to evaluate GenAi outputs critically, understand their limitations, act responsibly in their use, and retain ownership of their ideas and intellectual development.
Benchmarking your practice
When designing learning, teaching or assessment considering GenAI, ask yourself:
Does this enhance active student engagement?
Does it promote inclusion and equity?
Does it preserve authentic disciplinary judgement?
Does it strengthen relationships and partnership?
Does it develop our graduate attributes?
If so, it aligns with our principles and with People, Place and Partnership — ensuring the student experience remains protected, enhanced and future-facing.
Summary
GenAi is not an external disruption to be managed in isolation. It is one of many technological developments that must be integrated through principled, research-informed and values-led practice.
By grounding decisions in our Principles and Qualities, the strategic commitments of People, Place and Partnership and the graduate attributes, we ensure that the student experience is protected, enhanced and future-facing; enabling our graduates to flourish as capable, ethical and confident contributors to society.
