Generative artificial intelligence, also known as generative AI or GenAI, refers to a type of artificial intelligence that is capable of creating new content. This content can include text, images, music, audio, videos, and even synthetic (artificially generated) data.
These systems generate content based on the inputs and data humans provide to it. They analyze vast amounts of data to produce outputs that match the common patterns and contexts it has observed during its training. GenAI tools like Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and Google Gemini are essentially predictive engines, leveraging learned patterns to predict and generate the most relevant content for a given input, or prompt, that we provide.
What is Generative AI?
How can faculty use AI at IU?
Generative AI can support faculty in creating course content, generating ideas for assignments, and drafting feedback to students. It can also assist in developing interactive activities, such as simulations or case studies, that engage students in active learning. These tools enable faculty to innovate and enhance their teaching while saving time. Here are some useful training resources especially valuable to faculty:
- Teaching.IU’s section on GenAI: Brief overview of GenAI, examples of its use in teaching, and guidance about relevant university policies and how you can develop a strong course policy about GenAI use.
- Generative AI: an ethics of practice: A collection of practical strategies for how you may want to talk about GenAI in your classes, including general principles you may want to share with students and examples of AI syllabus statements.
- IU-created Generative AI in the classroom Canvas course: Basic AI literacy for instructors, responsible use guidelines, and tips for building assignments and assessments with GenAI in mind.
- IU-created GenAI essentials: practical AI skills across disciplines Canvas modules: Integrate generative AI into your courses with these easy-to-use Canvas modules, covering topics like Prompt Engineering, Ethics and Limitations of GenAI, Studying and Learning with GenAI, and more. You can also assign students to take these modules directly through IU Expand, where they can earn digital badges.
- LinkedIn Learning's teaching, learning, and research collection: Learn how to enhance teaching and learning with Microsoft Copilot and to use GenAI tools to improve research productivity.
How can staff use AI at IU?
AI can help IU staff perform various tasks such as composing emails, meeting summaries, and reports; improving research productivity and collaboration; and generating ideas. Here are some useful training resources especially valuable to staff:
- LinkedIn Learning's enhancing productivity collection: Learn how to use Microsoft Copilot as a productivity tool, how AI can improve your presentation and communication skills, and more.
- LinkedIn Learning's GenAI for leaders collection: Learn how to use GenAI not only to improve productivity but also to aid in strategic thinking, data analysis, decision-making, and other tasks relevant to administrators and leaders.
How can students use AI at IU?
Generative AI offers students a range of tools to enhance their learning experience, such as summarizing complex information, generating practice questions, and simulating real-world scenarios to deepen understanding. However, it's crucial to consult with your instructors regarding the appropriate use of AI tools in your coursework to ensure compliance with course policies. Here are some useful training resources especially valuable to students:
- IU-created GenAI essential skills online course: Learn practical skills like Prompt Engineering, Ethics and Limitations of GenAI, Studying and Learning with GenAI, and more. Earn a digital badge for completion of each module.
- Learning.IU - Learn with AI: Explore ideas for using GenAI in your studies, learn about principles that can guide academic use of AI, and see examples of how faculty members may talk about AI use in their classes.
- LinkedIn Learning's GenAI for students collection: Learn how to use GenAI responsibly with this collection of resources, covering everything from improving your writing and summarizing complex information to exploring multiple perspectives and conducting thought experiments.