Use of AI Rules & Reminders
As tournament season kicks into high gear this week, the President of the Arizona Speech and Debate Coaches Association asked coaches to share the following information to make sure all students are aware of how AI use fits within existing evidence and competition rules.
While AI can be a fantastic tool for research, organizing ideas, defining terms, or exploring perspectives outside of a round, AI should not be used to write speeches or generate competitive content. The information below is not new policy, just meant to be a reminder to help everyone stay on the same page and ensure fair, ethical competition.
As a member of TSTDC and the Arizona Speech and Debate community, you are responsible for knowing and upholding the following rules and ethical standards related to AI:
AI-generated speeches should not be read during a round. Students should not use content written by AI as their own speeches.
Citing AI as a source counts as an evidence violation based on the NSDA rules.
Failing to cite any source at all if asked (whether this is because it was produced by AI or any other reason) is also an evidence violation.
Additionally, another quick reminder from NSDA rules: recording during rounds, including audio, is not allowed. Students should not record opponents for AI use or for any other reason.
Let me know if you have any questions or if you ever need additional clarification on any competition rules/regulations. Looking forward to our first all team tournament this weekend!
-Kelly