AI misuse is among the top concerns of educators today. Students have unlimited access to AI-generative software tools, resulting in an increase of assignment submissions that cross the boundary from demonstrating original thinking into violating academic integrity policies. At our institution, we have responded to this crisis by increasing our support of faculty and students as well as maintaining high expectations of all parties involved. The support element of our approach involves providing educational resources to determine and prevent AI misuse, equipping educators to evaluate assignments effectively using resources such as Turnitin, and providing our own Plagiarism Prevention School option to rehabilitate students who submit unoriginal content. Equally important, we maintain that students, faculty, and administrators are held accountable to the high standards of academic integrity that support the aim of higher education. In this session, attendees will learn how one institution is taking actionable steps toward maintaining academic integrity in the age of AI.

Ben Garcia, Writing Resources Coordinator, English & Creative Writing Faculty, Hope International University
Natalie Hewitt, ALO, Academic Dean, Hope International University

This presentation will summarize the findings of a study conducted at Westcliff University’s SMART program, which explored the collaboration between 138 companies and over 600 students. It examines how these partnerships, alongside AI tools, helped students develop critical thinking and communication skills, offering insights for designing future-oriented academic programs.

The presentation will start by introducing the SMART program, emphasizing its goal of giving students hands-on experience in professional settings through company partnerships. It will then explore how AI tools enhanced student learning, particularly in problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. Examples include AI-driven communication platforms and data analysis tools used in student-company projects.

Key findings will show how these collaborations, supported by AI, improved students' abilities to think critically and communicate in professional environments. The broader implications for curriculum development will also be discussed, suggesting ways universities can adapt their programs to meet modern workforce needs.

Case studies from the SMART program will be presented to demonstrate successful projects and their impact on student performance. The presentation will offer recommendations for educators and administrators on integrating AI and industry collaborations into curricula to create a more dynamic, skills-based learning environment.

Finally, the presentation will conclude by discussing the future of university-industry partnerships, the role of AI in education, and the potential to design curricula that prepare students for both present and future challenges in the workforce.

Omar Haddad, Professor, Westcliff University
Raef Assaf, Professor, Westcliff University