Waterloo STEAM Academy
AI Assistance Attribution Policy

 

Purpose

 

Waterloo STEAM Academy uses AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot, to support writing, editing, research, and content development. This policy ensures consistent, transparent, and responsible attribution across all WSA materials.

 

1. When Attribution Is Required

 

Include an attribution line whenever:

 

  • Copilot generated substantial text later used in a final document
  • Copilot drafted an article, post, or curriculum section
  • Copilot contributed to research summaries or structured content
  • Copilot assisted with outreach, marketing, or sponsorship materials
  • Attribution is not required for:
  • Light editing or proofreading
  • Idea brainstorming
  • Internal notes that are not shared externally

 

2. Standard Attribution Line (Use for Most Content)

 

This content was developed with assistance from Microsoft Copilot.

 

This is the default line for blog posts, newsletters, public documents, and general communications.

 

3. Context‑Specific Attribution Variants

 

Curriculum & Learning Materials:

 

Learning materials prepared by Waterloo STEAM Academy with support from Microsoft Copilot.

 

Formal Reports, Grants & Evaluations:

 

This document includes sections developed with assistance from Microsoft Copilot and reviewed by WSA staff.

 

Marketing, Outreach & Sponsorship:

 

Created by Waterloo STEAM Academy with support from Microsoft Copilot.

 

Internal Drafts & Working Documents:

 

Draft developed with assistance from Microsoft Copilot.

 

4. Placement Guidelines

 

To keep attribution consistent across WSA:

 

  • Blog posts: place at the bottom of the article
  • Curriculum PDFs: footer or acknowledgements page
  • Reports & grants: methodology or appendix
  • Marketing materials: subtle footer placement
  • Social media: optional; use only when transparency is desired

 

5. Authorship Principles

 

To maintain clarity and integrity:

 

  • AI tools are not authors — do not list Copilot as a writer. A human must take accountability for the work they put out into the world. No pointing the finger at a machine, If an error is made it is not the machine's fault.
  • Humans remain responsible for reviewing and approving all content
  • Avoid implying partnership or endorsement unless formally established
  • Keep attribution factual, neutral, and unobtrusive

 

6. Review & Updates

 

This policy should be reviewed annually or when WSA updates its editorial standards, technology stack, or transparency commitments.

 

 

Published by the WSA's Editorial Standards Team

This content was developed with assistance from Microsoft Copilot