AI Academic Integrity Policy

“Study to show thyself approved unto God…” – 2 Timothy 2:15

1. Our aim and approach

At BIBS, our goal is not simply that students complete assignments, but that they grow in understanding of the Scriptures. We believe this growth comes through prayerful study, careful reading, and personal engagement with the Word of God.

Learning Scripture requires the sacrifice of time, active thought, prayerful reflection, and total dependence on the Holy Spirit to enlighten the student’s understanding. When this process is bypassed, the work may look good on the page, but the student has not truly learned. For this reason, Bethel School of Biblical Studies places a high value on original understanding, honesty, and Christian character in all academic work.

2. What we mean by AI and related tools

• Generative AI: tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and similar systems that can explain passages, generate answers, or write text.
• Supportive tools: spelling and grammar checkers (such as the basic tools in Word or Google Docs, or Grammarly). These may help correct mistakes, but must not be used to think, explain, or write work for you.

3. Original expression and personal understanding

All work submitted to BIBS must reflect your own original expression. This means:

• You have read and studied the Scripture yourself.
• You understand what you have written.
• You could explain your work in your own words.

Using any tool (human or digital) to replace your own thinking, interpretation, or explanation is not acceptable.

4. Use of AI in your studies

Generative AI must not be used to explain Bible passages, interpret Scripture, answer assignment questions, or create outlines. Students are expected to learn how to study the Bible directly using: the Bible, concordances, lexicons, dictionaries, and class notes.

5. What is not acceptable

The following are considered academic misconduct at BIBS:

• Submitting work written wholly or mainly by AI.
• Using AI to explain Scripture instead of studying it yourself.
• Presenting AI-generated material as if it were your own understanding.

6. Plagiarism and misrepresentation

Submitting work produced by AI as your own is a form of plagiarism, because it misrepresents who did the work and what the student actually understands.

7. Oral defence (Viva Voce)

If an assessor has concern that a piece of work may not reflect the student’s own understanding, the student may be invited to an oral discussion. The purpose is to confirm understanding and allow the student to explain their thinking. A brief record of the discussion will be kept.

8. Consequences of misuse

If it is confirmed that AI has been used in a way that breaks this policy:

• The work will be rejected and marked as “No Level”.
• The assignment may not be resubmitted in that academic year.
• The matter will be discussed with the student and a verbal warning recorded.
• Repeated misuse will result in refusal to assess future work.

9. A final word to students

This policy is not about catching people out. It is about helping you grow in truth and stand approved before God. If you are unsure whether something is allowed, ask your tutor before you submit your work.

AI Academic Integrity Policy · v1.00