AI tools can be very helpful while learning to program. However, in this course we want you to use AI primarily as a mentor, not as a code factory.
This page explains what that means in practice, and what we expect from you when you use AI.
Use AI to:
Ask for clarifications on concepts you do not fully understand yet.
For example: “Can you explain what a promise is in JavaScript, with a simple example?”
Ask for hints when you are stuck.
For example: “I am trying to fetch data from an API, but I keep getting a 404. What could be going wrong?”
Ask for feedback on your own code.
For example: “Here is my function. Can you review it for readability and edge cases?”
Ask for alternative approaches.
For example: “Is there a simpler way to write this loop?” or “Can you show a version using async/await instead of then/catch?”
In other words: use AI the way you would use a teacher, a teaching assistant, or a more experienced developer. The goal is to improve your understanding, not to skip the learning process.
Sometimes you may still decide to use code suggested by an AI tool. If you do, you take full responsibility for that code: you must own it.
This means:
You must be able to explain every line in your own words.
If you cannot explain it, you should not submit it as your work.
You must be able to debug it when something goes wrong.
Copy-pasting without understanding usually leads to bugs you cannot fix.
You must be ready to defend design choices.
For example: why this data structure, why this error handling approach, why this algorithm.
Using AI-generated code without understanding it is similar to copying from another student: it gives a false impression of your skills and slows down your own learning.
It is completely acceptable to use AI tools, as long as you are:
In interviews, code reviews, or homework discussions, you should:
Admit openly if AI helped you.
For example: “I wrote the first version myself, then I asked an AI for suggestions on improving performance.”
Never claim that AI-generated code is entirely your own idea if that is not true.
Expect follow-up questions that test whether you really understand the code.
If you cannot answer those questions, it is a sign that you relied too much on AI.
Honesty builds trust. Trying to hide AI use almost always backfires.
The goal of this program is for you to become a capable, independent developer.
AI can be a powerful ally in that journey, but only if you use it in a way that:
Use AI thoughtfully. Ask questions. Learn from it. But always remember: in the end, you are responsible for the code you write and the skills you bring to your future team.
Found a mistake or have a suggestion? Let us know in the feedback form.