What are generative AI tools?

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, such as text or images. GAI tools generate new material by learning patterns and structures from existing examples.

In 2022 and 2023, several new variants of generative AI became available that were significantly better than before: material can be generated in a matter of seconds, and the language quality is high. The GAI tool that received the most media attention was ChatGPT. The tool functions as a chat where users can ask questions or give commands and receive text in various styles. This feature can be useful, for example, in developing ideas. By following the link below, you can access ChatGPT. Feel free to try the tool!

Go to ChatGPT – chat.openai.com

What challenges do these tools present?

GAI tools are widely discussed in higher education because their use can have undesirable effects on teaching. Since the tools generate material so quickly, it can be difficult for teachers to determine how much students have actually learned. The tools are also not entirely reliable and can generate false information.

Testing has proven that it is currently impossible to detect the use of GAI tools. Therefore, Lund University advises teachers against using any programs claiming to detect GAI usage.

What are the guidelines at Lund University?

At Lund University, it is permissible to use generative AI tools in education if you believe they can contribute to or facilitate learning. However, there are some important things to consider. As a teacher, you need to:

• be able to confirm that students have achieved the program's and course's learning objectives
• be aware that sharing students' work with GAI tools is not allowed
• ensure that every student has equal access to the GAI tools you recommend
• inform students about the risks of sharing personal information or copyrighted material with the tools
• inform students about the rules for using GAI tools in the course or program.

If you do not want students to use GAI tools, you must clearly state this in the exam information and grading criteria.