Using AI at the U of A

As a global leader in AI research, we must ensure that ethical and responsible usage of AI is embedded in all that we do. To support this goal, the U of A Steering Committee on AI was established to provide strategic oversight and direction for AI initiatives at the university supported by subcommittees for operations, research and innovation, teaching and learning and student support services. Undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctoral fellows are participating meaningfully in this work. Thoughtful engagement with AI can help us achieve many of the goals of the Student Experience Action Plan, including Enabling Academic Agency and Flexibility and Prioritizing Student Success. As a global leader in AI research, we have the opportunity to embed ethical and responsible usage of AI in all that we do. Through intentional, informed efforts to be thoughtful users of AI technology, we keep our institution's priorities at the forefront, remaining committed to supporting teaching, research and engagement, and the personal, academic and professional success of our students.

Using Artificial Intelligence at the U of A

As part of its roll-out of tools and resources, the Steering Committee launched the "Using Artificial Intelligence at the U of A" webpage in December 2024. The site aims to provide a central area for sharing AI-related information and resources for the U of A community, including the draft Framework for Responsible & Ethical Use of AI at the U of A. This framework seeks to build trust among those who will be impacted by our use of AI by ensuring we use these tools with a commitment to transparency, fairness, accountability and mindfulness.

Activating Gemini App

As the U of A examines the burgeoning presence of AI in our daily lives, we acknowledge the excitement for using it to support our work. However, we recognize that these tools should be used with careful evaluation of their risks. Google's Gemini App is one of many generative AI-powered assistants on the market. Gemini App is a core Google Workspace service supported by IST, and its use is included and recognized by the U of A's agreement with Google.

As part of its support for the responsible use of AI in the workplace, Gemini App will be activated and made available to U of A faculty, staff and students as part of U of A's Google Suite on January 20.  

Activating the Gemini App will provide an institutionally-approved, free and secure tool to respond to the demand for access to generative AI as a productivity tool. Gemini App reduces the associated risk of using other generative AI products and is a recommended U of A tool for optimal data protection. Interactions with the Gemini App stay within the Google Workspace Cloud, isolated to the U of A and are not reviewed by humans or otherwise used to improve Google's generative AI models. There is no additional cost to the U of A for activating the Gemini App.

Gemini App is one of many tools and technologies available to U of A students. If using an AI tool makes sense in your work, and there is agreement from your instructor, the Gemini App is available for use in a manner consistent with our Framework. How, if and when students can use it will remain at the discretion of instructors. 

As always, students must adhere to the Student Academic Integrity Policy and the expectations of their instructors. The policy defines academic integrity as a commitment to upholding "the fundamental values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage in every aspect of academic and scholarly activities." 

Resources

Resources for students are available on the "Using Artificial Intelligence at the U of A" webpage to support students as they navigate using AI in their work. More information and resources for using AI will be added on an ongoing basis.

The Navigating Generative AI: Understanding, Applications, and Ethics course is now available to all members of the U of A community and provides a great foundation for exploring the use of the Gemini App.

IST's "Get Started with Gemini App" article provides a useful starting point and frequently asked questions.

We recognize that generative AI is an exciting tool to explore. Through thoughtful conversations within the areas of teaching and learning, research and operations, the Steering Committee and its subcommittees will ensure that AI initiatives align with the U of A's strategic goals, uphold ethical standards and foster innovation and adaptability. We will ensure that U of A faculty, students and staff have the support and resources to incorporate these tools as appropriate.   

Co-chairs, U of A Steering Committee on AI

• Shari Baraniuk, Associate Vice-President, IST and CIO, VP University Services and Finance
• Karsten Mundel, Vice Provost (Learning Initiatives), Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic)