AI is changing the way you produce work, how teachers prepare lessons or assess students, and how schools organize digital practices. However, several legal issues are at stake : copyright ; personal data protection ; equal access ; and the right to education.
For example, UNESCO warns about the effects of AI on the “right to education” as a human right : “These technologies are transforming access to, the quality of, and the governance of education.”
In France, the Ministry of National Education has published a “framework for the use of AI in education” to regulate educational and administrative uses (so that your teachers do not cross certain boundaries).
This dual movement—technology and law—requires a clear definition of what is permitted, what is prohibited, and what is simply recommended.
When you or your teachers use text, images, videos, or external resources—or incorporate generative AI to create content—copyright issues may arise.
The national framework specifically notes that “AI services accessible to the general public do not guarantee that the data entered will not be reused; consequently, no confidential or personal data should be used in them.”
In an educational setting, this means that you should avoid using copyrighted works without permission, or engaging in public use of AI that exploits protected content without verification.
Projects involving AI may require the collection or entry of data from other individuals (e.g., last name, first name, facial image). The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and national regulations require compliance with the principles of data minimization and anonymization.
Therefore, in a school project using AI: ensure that only non-identifying or anonymized data is submitted, that the tool is compliant or authorized, and that teachers/the institution have reviewed the tool’s Terms of Service (TOS).
The use of AI in assignments can exacerbate inequalities: some students have access to powerful tools at home, while others do not; some know how to use Prompt, while others do not. Ensuring equity requires :
providing tools that are accessible to everyone ;
training students in essential skills ;
preventing proficiency with AI from becoming an unintended factor in grading.
So use AI in a controlled manner, to avoid “cheating” and to ensure your work remains meaningful.
Even though these requirements demand your full commitment, they are part of a framework established by the instructor. The instructor must explain what is permitted in the assignment: whether assistance is allowed, the degree of independence required, mandatory citations, and permitted tools.
Your teacher remains responsible for enforcing the guidelines, but you are accountable for how you choose to use—or not use—AI tools. Don’t hesitate to talk to them about it—in fact, you should definitely do so!
Clarify the project rules : authorized tools, permitted uses, citation requirements, and evaluation criteria.
Favor data-respecting tools ; avoid entering personal data into open AI systems.
Ask your teacher about the rights associated with your work : data, intellectual property, and risks of dependency.
Systematically anonymize any data provided to tools.
Verify generated content : reliable sources, absence of bias, and compliance with the instructions.
Maintain fairness by using these tools within reasonable limits.
Value your critical thinking : distinguish between human contribution and assisted contribution.
The school must establish a policy on digital technology and the use of AI, ensure compliance with the law, and also anticipate disciplinary issues (e.g., plagiarism using AI) and liability concerns (e.g., errors in AI tools).
Beyond the tool itself, the key issue is educational : AI should help you learn, not replace you. It is therefore important to learn about AI, rather than letting AI teach you. Think of Artificial Intelligence as a guide. AI-generated content without critical thinking loses its educational value.
Your work must be produced under fair conditions and within a sovereign framework : where does your data go ? What tools are used ? Who benefits from it ? These issues extend beyond the school setting.
School projects that incorporate artificial intelligence open up tremendous educational opportunities : personalization, differentiation, and innovation. But they cannot be implemented without taking into account the legal and ethical frameworks : copyright, data protection, equity, and educational responsibility. Schools, teachers, and you must adapt to these tools in a thoughtful and informed manner.
And to make sure everything goes smoothly, be sure to get liability insurance for school-related activities and internships. With STUDCORP, you can work with peace of mind and fully enjoy your professional experience!
Adam de la team STUDCORP.