Artificial intelligence (AI) is the use of technology to complete tasks once performed exclusively by humans. It simulates human intelligence by learning, usually via a data set or other knowledgebase. AI takes many forms, and with its ease of access and use expanding rapidly, our students have unprecedented access to tools which can produce human-sounding written works, generate images, produce videos, build presentations, write code, streamline productivity, and much more.
AI text generators, with ChatGPT being the first to make waves in November 2022, are evolving rapidly. Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Claude are among some of the more well known generative AI text tools available for free to users, with optional paid tiers available. Each of these products offer similar functionality with varying degrees of success; some of which can also leverage their respected search engines (ChatGPT Plus, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot) to form more accurate outputs. In addition, Google has woven Gemini into its productivity suite (Docs, Slides, etc.) and Microsoft has added Copilot to Office 365 (Word, PowerPoint, etc.) and Windows 11.
The impact of artificial intelligence in higher education is ongoing, most notably implicating academic integrity and prompting faculty to evaluate course activities and assessments. In response to these concerns, ITDS has developed workshops and offers 1-1 AI consultations to assist faculty wanting to learn more about generative AI as methods to leverage these tools and mitigate misuse.
Navigate the sections below to learn more about types of artificial intelligence and explore a few tools related to each. While this page focuses strictly on AI tools as an instructional technology, you may consider seeking ways to incorporate AI into your course or applying instructional design strategies to mitigate improper use of AI.