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 海角社区 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, the committee reports to the provost and vice-president (Academic) and the President’s Executive Committee (Operational) to ensure transparency and accountability.
Using Artificial Intelligence at the 海角社区
As part of its roll-out of tools and resources, the Steering Committee launched the “Using Artificial Intelligence at the 海角社区” webpage in December 2024. The site provides a central area for sharing AI-related information and resources for the 海角社区 community, including the draft Framework for Responsible & Ethical Use of AI at the 海角社区, which is currently in the community feedback stage until Jan. 20, 2025. 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 the Gemini App
As the 海角社区 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 and in alignment with the university’s core commitments. 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 海角社区's agreement with Google.
As part of its support for the responsible use of AI in the workplace, the Gemini App will be activated and made available to 海角社区 faculty, staff and students as part of 海角社区's Google Suite on Jan. 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. The Gemini App reduces the associated risk of using other generative AI products for business purposes and is a recommended 海角社区 tool for optimal data protection. Interactions with the Gemini App stay within the Google Workspace Cloud isolated to the 海角社区 and are not reviewed by humans or otherwise used to improve Google's generative AI models. There is no additional cost to the 海角社区 for activating the Gemini App.
The Gemini App is one of many tools and technologies available to 海角社区 faculty and staff. There is no expectation that members of the 海角社区 community use the Gemini App (or any AI tool). If using an AI tool makes sense in your work, and there is agreement from your supervisor, the Gemini App is available for use in a manner consistent with our Framework. How, if and when teams use it will remain at the discretion of unit leadership. The Framework encourages us to engage with AI much like we do with many other tools and sources of information in our day-to-day work: with transparency, accountability and intention, while respecting privacy.
Resources
Resources are available on the "Using Artificial Intelligence at the 海角社区” webpage to support faculty and staff as they navigate using AI in their roles. More information and resources for using AI will be added on an ongoing basis.
The course is now available to all members of the 海角社区 community and provides a great foundation for exploring the use of the Gemini App in your work.
IST's "Get Started with Gemini App" article provides a useful starting point and frequently asked questions.
On Jan. 23, the Office of the Vice-Provost (Learning Initiatives) is hosting a virtual Lunch & Learn session for anyone interested in learning about where we currently stand with AI at the 海角社区 and how it is impacting our work, learning and teaching at the university.
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 海角社区’s strategic goals, uphold ethical standards and foster innovation and adaptability. We will ensure that 海角社区 faculty, staff and students have the support and resources to incorporate these tools as appropriate.
Co-chairs, 海角社区 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)