In a world where technology and innovation are advancing rapidly, the question some college students are still pondering here at Long Beach City College is whether there is a clear consensus on the use of generative AI in the classroom.
The Viking expressed its opinion on the matter in May 2025, when students do not have a clear answer as to what was acceptable when using AI in a classroom setting.
Some professors have strict policies against the use of AI and students could face serious academic penalties.
In some professors’ syllabi, the use of AI is not allowed, stating that the use of AI is plagiarism and doesn’t reflect the work of the student, while other professors at LBCC express that using AI is accepted in their courses.
In December 2025, LBCC Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. O “Lee” Davis, created a policy for the use of AI titled 4910 AP Generative Artificial Intelligence in Academics, which states, “Instructors have the right to set their own expectations regulating the use of generative AI tools in each of their individual courses. This includes whether to allow or disallow some or all uses of generative AI tools. Instructors should set expectations in their course syllabus and clearly communicate these expectations to students in the course”.
While some professors prohibit the use of AI in their classrooms, the lack of clear guidance from LBCC administration creates a gray area that highlights inconsistency.
Instructors are able to hold the authority to restrict AI use, but students, even those participating in courses designed to use AI, are not given the same autonomy to make the same informed decision about its use.
As AI begins to solidify itself into our daily lives, LBCC continues to offer courses and workshops to learn more about the abilities of AI, but are still allowing professors to dictate whether it’s acceptable.
On the LBCC website, the library guidelines provide pros and cons about the use and general risks involved when using AI academically, but do not provide a clear answer about its proper usage.
According to an article written by the University of Illinois by the Office of Communications, College of Education, in October 2024, there were clear advantages for students to use AI in some capacity: “AI can be used to inspire and foster creativity, lend multiple perspectives, summarize existing materials, generate and reinforce lesson plans, and stimulate image creation.”
The University of Illinois’ Office of Communications, College of Education continues to state, “Nearly half of students have tried AI writing tools at least once; 71% of instructors have never tried AI tools.”
Allowing students to utilize AI as a gateway to higher education and to be used ethically should be something that LBCC considers for all students moving forward, as they continue to promote A.I. certificates as a career path
Students need an administration that does not allow professors to undercut learning capabilities but also supports and embraces the use of a practice that is offered as a skillset at LBCC.
LBCC is excelling in the level of courses offered, investing in the future of their students; however, teaching a skill like generative AI should also allow students the capability of making a conscious effort and careful decisions on when generative AI is acceptable.
