Abstract

The Position Stand (PS) that follows represents the considered and formal position of BASES on AI
and assessment. This preface captures the reflection of authors on the thought process they went
through in drafting this work. We hope readers will find this preface helpful in orientating themselves
and their practices in relation to what follows. Three aspects capture our reflection:
1. Assessment is an integral part of the teaching and learning process and cannot be
considered in isolation. We are therefore conscious of the fact that what follows adopts a
holistic position which incorporates learning, teaching and assessment. In short, we do not
focus exclusively or narrowly on assessment.
2. AI is developing so quickly ensuring the currency of any work in this area is challenging. The
only constant is change.
3. We choose to present a rather conservative view of the impact of AI. That is, we deal with AI
as it existed in the public domain whilst we were drafting this Position Stand over the summer
and early Autumn of 2023. In doing so we view AI as a positive development that in some
contexts can be viewed as a ‘Digital Assistant’ that if used correctly can improve student and
academic productivity. However, we recognise that it is entirely possible, indeed likely, that AI
could result in both i) major societal & economic disruption and ii) a paradigm shift in
education. For example, this might include mass unemployment across the economy and AI
replacing many roles currently held by academics and professionals.
Whilst it is entirely possible to present a dystopian view of the near future, we made the conscious
decision not to do so. This is not because we think it is certain that such a future will not come to pass
but because we are optimists who want to offer practical, relevant advice for the here and now.