Research Guides: Misinformation and disinformation: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

What is AI?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has historically referred to a collection of technologies designed to emulate human intelligence. In recent years, the term has become synonymous with machine learning, a set of computer processes used to identify unintuitive patterns in data. Examples of AI today include speech recognition, autonomous vehicle navigation, and the generation of new content, such as text or images. (Aspen Digital)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101
A non-technical guide that addresses common questions about artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Includes a printable PDF. Created by Aspen Digital.

Identifying AI-generated content

As of early 2025, nope. AI detectors are not particularly accurate.

What's more, research suggests AI detection software "has high error rates and can lead instructors to falsely accuse students of misconduct" (MIT Sloan) and can be biased against non-native English writers (Stanford HAI).

Select the tabs to see strategies for detecting AI text and images and videos using your own observation skills (not using AI detection tools).

AI Writing Detection: Red Flags
Useful for text inside and outside of the classroom, Montclair State University suggests checking for certain red flags.
Detecting AI-Generated Text: 12 Things to Watch For
Compiled by East Central College, Faculty Resources for Educational Excellence.

How to use your phone to spot fake images
From the Poynter Institute, questions to ask and tools you can use to fact check online images.
RevEye Reverse Image Search
A Chrome plug-in that can do a reverse image search.
TinEye
A website and plug-in that helps identify the original source of an image.

How to verify viral social media videos from The Poynter Institute for Media Studies.

Check with CCC's Online Learning and Educational Technology (OLET) department for the latest AI detection tool recommendations.

Faculty Support

503-594-6618
online@clackamas.edu
Submit a support ticket
Oregon City Campus: Streeter 143

Student Support

Check with your instructor for their expectations around use of AI in the classroom.

CCC librarians can help you work through identifying real and AI-generated content, and information attribution, copyright, and citation considerations.

Misinformation and disinformation

What is AI?

Identifying AI-generated content

Faculty Support

Student Support

AI and misinformation in the news (and blogs)