Teaching and Learning in the Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence

Using Generative AI for assignments and other learning activities

Generative AI tools are evolving rapidly, and our understanding of their impact, benefits, and limitations is changing constantly. This is a working document that will be updated as we learn new things, experiment with the tools, and discuss and collaborate with each other. 

What is Generative Artificial Intelligence?

Important: These pages discuss Generative AI and its use in an educational environment only.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI or GenAI) is a type of Artificial Intelligence that generates new content based on content it was trained on. The process of training involves feeding the AI system with content (such as text, video, audio, or images), on which it then creates a statistical model. 

Generative AI should not be confused with Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), which represents a theoretical approach to AI development for the foreseeable future. Achieving Strong AI implies creating a machine with intelligence on par with humans, possessing self-awareness and the capability to problem-solve, learn, and strategize for the future. Although some researchers claim AGI will be achievable in a few decades, others maintain the impossibility of such type of AI. 

Unlike AGI, a generative AI system uses a prompt given by users, and using its statistical model predicts what the expected response should look like. For this reason, it generates new content based on previous content it’s been trained on.

Important: Depending on the quality of the training content (also called dataset) the result could show bias in the interpretation of the prompt (which is corrected by programmers) and the response given (the output). These outputs are prone to perpetuate biases and discrimination and provide false information.

Uses in educational settings

Generative AI tools can help teachers and learners with cognitive offloading, routine and administrative tasks. These tools can also support the creation of learning or instructional materials: for example, creating sample questions for a quiz based on the content provided, drafting sample reading or incorrect instructional materials that students are tasked to review and edit, and creating presentations and videos. Generative AI tools have also been integrated into software to deploy chatbots that can work as personal tutors or study buddies. However, it is critical to remember that Generative AI tools cannot reason. These tools can supplement but can't replace personalized connections. Also, these tools can produce incorrect, biased, discriminatory, and harmful content and shouldn’t be used for decision-making or taken as truthful information. 

In many jobs and professions, working effectively with AI has already become or will become an essential part of daily activities and responsibilities. Supporting our students as they learn to engage ethically, critically, and responsibly with AI will better prepare them for the rapidly changing demands of the future. As educators, we are also required to engage ethically, critically, and responsibly with AI as it is transforming education and many other aspects of our lives.

The relevance and application of Generative Artificial Intelligence tools will vary from discipline to discipline and from course to course. Reviewing the learning outcomes of your course may help clarify if and how the incorporation of AI tools can support meaningful learning and the development of skills that learners will need in their professions. 

Generative AI offers new opportunities for both faculty and students. It can: 

• Provide instant access to vast amounts of information. 
• Aid diverse learners with different learning abilities, linguistic backgrounds or accessibility needs. 
• Offer a starting point when we get stuck. 
• Accelerate exploration and creativity, spark curiosity, and suggest new ideas and ways of thinking.