A Large Language Model (LLM) AI program is one that uses generative AI to mimic the writing and other creative output of a human, producing novel text, computer code, art and etc. DePaul University considers such LLM output, such as that produced by ChatGPT to be the output of a hypothetical original author. Using such output in assignments without full, clear, attribution is an academic integrity violation.

For any and all assignments and course content that might conceivably be turned in with LLM output (of any kind) as a component, in addition to the content grade rubric, I reserve the absolute right to also grade according to my style preferences. That is, independently of any other assignment content, If I don't like what you have turned in, I am absolutely free to give you a zero on the assignment, with no further explanation necessary. I am a successful, award-winning, published author. I have written many research articles, over which I have always taken great care. I taught English. I have developed and taught over forty university courses and graded tens of thousands of written submissions. I believe I am competent to judge the quality of submissions based on my preferences. In short, in addition to all other grade rubric elements for content in assignments, you also must please me in your writing structure and style. To be clear: this grade policy applies to any kind of content which may be mimicked by LLMs.

Note: I hate content presentation styles and structure (e.g., for writing, postings, and etc.) that are similar to that of LLM output. This style and structure does not please me, so do not turn in assignments that are written this way.

Note two: In general, except for formal papers, I tend to be forgiving of English-as-a-Second- (or Third-, or Fourth-) Language difficulties, as long as the structure of a submission is well laid out. I typically find that even those with limited English vocabularies and limited knowledge of complex English syntax are still often well-able to communicate the structure of their arguments, and ideas, and I consider these communicated ideas and structure to be the most important features of submissions to class.