Instructional Designer, CTLE
Online Learning Librarian, UHD Library
This guide is a comprehensive resource exclusively curated for UHD students to provide them with the knowledge and tools to responsibly explore the field of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI). Our guide includes background information, key terms, issues, guidance for academic and professional use and a variety of resources to expand your understanding. Due to ongoing developments in this field of Generative AI, this resource will be updated quarterly. Contact vacatoledof@uhd.edu for questions about this resource.
In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the fascinating field of generative AI. This interest has been fueled by impressive advancements in technology and the widespread availability of user-friendly tools. Despite misconceptions about its novelty, generative AI has a deep-rooted history marked by significant milestones. However, it was not until 2014, with the introduction of generative adversarial networks, or GANs -- a type of machine learning algorithm -- that generative AI could create convincingly authentic images, videos, and audio of real people.
GenAI, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, autonomously generates content, including texts, software code, images, videos, and music, in response to written prompts. Trained with data from webpages and social media, GenAI employs statistical analysis to identify and replicate common patterns, such as word or pixel distribution.
Hallucinations-Due to its tendency to generate content based on patterns, Generative AI systems can sometimes produce false content. It makes sense in the pattern of data but not in reality.
Inaccurate sources-If the data that it's trained on contains inacuracies, the bot will produce inaccuracies. This can lead to more misinformation.
Outdated information-Generative AI does not have access to the most up-to-date information. It might generate information that is obsolete leading to misinformation.
Biased information-Generative AI will have data that is biased, reflecting stereotypes, prejudices, discriminatory views. Generating this type of data causes harm and perpetuates inequality.
Copyright and Intellectual Policy Issues-There is a risk in generating content that is very similar to coopyrighted works without proper authorization. Legal challenges are taking place and will certainly influence copyright laws and institutional policies.
Data Privacy and Securtiy-There is a risk that sensitive and personal information could be exposed.
Enhanced Creativity-GAI can help you automate mundane tasks and free you to engage with different ideas. It can be used as a collaborator stimulating creativity in your process.
Personalized Learning-By generating prompts to learn skills that are specific to your interest and level of understanding can enhance your learning for courses and workplace.
Research Assistance-specific generative AI tools can help reduce the time of the initial search curating articles and data (Elicit, Consensus and Inciteful) and reviewing the content more quickly (TLDRthis and AskYourPDF).
Tutoring Assistance-Generative AI tools can provide personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Many educational technology software and apps already include Generative AI and are widely using in K-12 schools. It may analyze students' strengths and weaknesses, tailor educational content acordingly, and offer real-time feedback. These systems can also generate interactive exercises, quizzes, and simulations to reinforce learning. University students can benefit from this personalized approach, receiving targeted support that caters to their individual needs and learning styles.
Language Learning and Translation-Generative AI helps with language learning and translation. it uses advanced models to create natural-sournding text. Students can use AI-powered platforms to practice speaking, writing, and understanding different languages. Also, AI translation tools offer accurate and quick translations, making it easier to access educational materials in different languages. These toolsnot only improve language skills but also encourage cultural exchange among students from different backgrounds.
Accessibility-Generative AI can offer a variety of support materials and interaction methods tailored for students with disabilities, neurodiversity, multilingual backgrounds, and other challenges they may encounter. Tools with natural language processing and speech recognition can help suppport students with visual and auditory needs. The involvement of individuals with disabilities must be in the forefront of the development of these tools to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.