Press Release

Amid the rapid integration of generative artificial intelligence into the realms of learning and research, a “Bridging Ideas: Research Workshop Series” [14] focusing on "AI and Academic Integrity" was successfully held on 17 September. Themed " Using AI As Wings, Integrity as the Rudder—The Future Direction of Academic Writing" the workshop featured Dr. Voon Yeun Ting, Senior Lecturer at the Institute of International Education, New Era University College, as the invited speaker. Together, participants explored the boundaries and responsibilities of academic writing in the AI era, with the workshop conducted bilingually in Chinese and English. The event was designed not only for students currently working on theses, preparing research proposals, or conducting academic research, but also for individuals from all backgrounds who have begun using AI to support their learning. Dr. Voon Yeun Ting expressed the hope that through such an event, learners would be guided to rethink writing responsibility and future learning approaches in the AI era — embracing the conveniences of technology while upholding the core values of academic integrity.

Drawing on her research experience in educational technology, innovative teaching methodologies, and the design and evaluation of instructional materials, Dr. Voon Yeun Ting provided an accessible yet in-depth analysis of the opportunities and challenges that generative AI brings to academic writing. She noted that AI tools have indeed significantly enhanced writing efficiency in areas such as organising reference materials, generating ideas, and polishing language. At the same time, however, she raised pressing questions that the academic community can no longer afford to ignore: Can AI-generated references be cited directly? Should the use of AI in writing be proactively disclosed? Where exactly does the line lie between "making good use of AI" and "academic misconduct"?

During the workshop, Dr. Voon systematically outlined the legitimate and reasonable boundaries for AI use in academic writing, illustrating through concrete case studies the real risks and consequences that may arise from improper use of AI. She emphasised that establishing a safe, transparent, and compliant approach to AI-assisted writing is a fundamental competency that every writer should possess. "When AI becomes the writer's tool, integrity becomes the bottom line that cannot be replaced," she stated. She further observed that in an era where AI has become a tool for learning and research, the question is no longer simply whether one can use AI, but rather how to use it responsibly.

Participants responded with great enthusiasm throughout the workshop, with the Q&A session proving particularly lively. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions with the speaker on topics including citation standards for AI-generated content, policy differences across academic institutions regarding AI use, and how to maintain critical thinking when employing AI. Dr. Voon provided detailed responses to every question and encouraged students to always maintain academic self-awareness when using AI tools — "enhancing writing efficiency with AI while safeguarding academic value through integrity." Given the overwhelming number of questions, the interactive session grew increasingly animated, emerging as a highlight of the entire lecture. The workshop commenced punctually at 7:30 p.m., lasted one and a half hours, and concluded smoothly at 9:00 p.m., attracting approximately 50 participants on the Zoom platform.