Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)
What is GenAI?
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is a type of technology that can create new content, such as written text, images, audio or computer code, based on instructions (also called prompts) you provide. You may already be familiar with tools like ChatGPT or Grammarly, which are common examples of GenAI.
How does GenAI work?
GenAI works by recognising patterns in very large amounts of data and using these patterns to create new responses. It is trained on millions of examples, such as text, images, or code, so it can learn how language and media are structured. When you type in an instruction or prompt, the system predicts a useful or relevant answer based on what it has learned.
This short video provide a gentle introduction to GenAI. You can access the full course for free via LinkedIn Learning to learn more about GenAI tools, how they work and how they fit into the larger AI ecosystem.
What can I use GenAI for?
The University has produced a position statement called Student Guide to Ethical use of Generative Artificial Intelligence, which you can access on your Institution Page when logged into Learning Edge (Blackboard).
The table below, taken from the University position statement, also outlines some of the ethical and unethical uses of GenAI.
| Ethical use of AI as a tool | Unethical use of AI as a tool |
|---|---|
| Exploring initial ideas / keywords for a topic | Presenting AI generate content as your own work |
| Helping to gain an understanding of complex ideas / concepts | Using AI to generate your assignment, or parts of it, without any acknowledgement of courses or personal input |
| Helping to locate sources | Using AI to deceive – making claims to knowledge and understanding that is not your own |
| Drafting ideas and planning or structuring | Improper referencing – using AI to generate references / bibliographies when you have not engaged with them yourself |
| Generating ideas for graphics, image and visuals | Asking AI to re-write your work in a way that changes the academic content |
| Gaining feedback on your work before submission (e.g. grammar checking tools) to refine your style | Use of smart devices, such as AI glasses, in examinations, tests or presentations |
| As a revision aid |
Library Resources Vs AI
Library and Learning Services have teamed up with your Students’ Union to discuss the pros and cons of using AI in your academic studies. Whilst we recognise there can be benefits to some elements of AI, when it comes to your studies balance is the key!
Click the button below to join your Student Advisor, Ivy, and SU Faculty of Education President, Dewi, discussing the merits of using Discover More to ensure you are:
- Accessing FREE university approved, peer-reviewed resources
- Developing long-term, transferable research and critical thinking skills
- Finding high quality academic information
- Avoiding unnecessary risks for potential misconduct
- Using reliable and accurate sources to support your writing
- Staying in control of your personal information
Where can I find further advice and guidance on GenAI?
You should always discuss acceptable usage of GenAI for your specific course and assessments with your tutors. You can also access additional support by booking a UniSkills one-to-one appointment and exploring the range of UniSkills toolkits.