With the rapidly evolving world of AI, especially Generative AI tools, it's important to understand how these technologies can enhance teaching, research, and academic workflows while maintaining educational integrity. While OTLE does not provide AI tools directly from our office, nor acts as the expert in any aspect of AI, there are many AI tools and resources available that could benefit your academic practice.

Choosing a Generative AI Tool for Academic Use

Generative AI is the type of AI that can create new content like images, text, audio, video, etc. in response to a user prompt or input. Tools are regularly being updated and improved, but there are many factors to consider when selecting appropriate tools for academic environments.

Popular Generative AI Tools
Tool Primary Function Best For
ChatGPT

Text generation

Writing, Research, Tutoring, Research Assistance
Claude Conversational AI Academic Analysis, Coding, Course Planning
DALL-E Image Generation Visual Aids, Presentation Graphics, Course Materials
Gamma Presentation Generation Lecture Slides, Conference Presentations, Course Websites
Gemini Multimodal AI Assistant Complex Research Tasks, Data Analysis Support
Copilot Code Assistance Programming Courses, Technical Documentation
Grammarly Writing Enhancement Paper Reviews, Student Feedback, Grant Writing

Privacy and Security Considerations

Faculty must be particularly cautious about data privacy when using GenAI tools:

  • Student Data Protection: Never input student names, grades, personal information, or FERPA-protected data into external AI tools
  • Research Confidentiality: Avoid sharing unpublished research, proprietary data, or confidential institutional information
  • Intellectual Property: Be mindful of sharing copyrighted materials or sensitive academic content

Cost Management for Academic Departments

Many GenAI tools offer educational discounts or institutional licensing:

  • Research institutional pricing options before individual subscriptions
  • Consider department-wide or university-wide licensing for commonly used tools
  • Be cautious of free trials that auto-convert to paid subscriptions
  • Budget for AI tool costs in grant applications and department planning

Pedagogical Applications of GenAI

Curriculum Development

  • Generate discussion questions and case studies
  • Create diverse assessment rubrics
  • Develop course outlines and learning objectives
  • Design interactive learning activities

Research Enhancement

  • Literature review assistance and summarization
  • Data analysis and visualization support
  • Grant writing and proposal development
  • Research methodology consultation

Teaching Support

  • Create diverse examples and explanations
  • Generate practice problems and solutions
  • Develop multilingual course materials
  • Design accessible content for diverse learners

Student AI Use Policies

Establishing Clear Guidelines

  • Develop course-specific AI use policies
  • Communicate expectations clearly in syllabi
  • Discuss academic integrity implications
  • Provide examples of appropriate vs. inappropriate us

Assessment Considerations

  • Design assignments that minimize AI misuse
  • Focus on process documentation and reflection
  • Emphasize critical thinking over content generation
  • Consider AI-assisted vs. AI-generated work distinctions

Ethical Considerations for Faculty

Academic Integrity

  • Understand the difference between AI assistance and AI replacement of learning
  • Help students develop critical evaluation skills
  • Maintain transparency about your own AI use in course materials
  • Address concerns about fairness and equity in AI access

Bias and Representation

  • Recognize that AI tools may perpetuate existing biases in academic content
  • Critically evaluate AI-generated materials for cultural sensitivity
  • Ensure diverse perspectives are maintained in curriculum
  • Address limitations of AI in complex cultural or ethical discussions

Quality Assurance

  • Always verify AI-generated academic content
  • Maintain expertise in your subject matter
  • Use AI as a supplement, not replacement, for scholarly judgment
  • Model critical thinking about AI-generated information

Professional Development Resources

Learning to Use GenAI Effectively

Staying Current

  • Subscribe to higher education AI newsletters
  • Attend webinars on AI in academia
  • Participate in faculty development workshops
  • Join AI in education communities of practice

Guidelines for Faculty Use of GenAI

  • Transparency: Disclose AI use in research publications and course materials when appropriate
  • Verification: Independently verify all AI-generated academic content
  • Student Communication: Clearly communicate AI policies and expectations to students
  • Professional Ethics: Maintain disciplinary standards and academic rigor
  • Continuous Learning: Stay informed about AI developments relevant to your field
  • Collaboration: Work with colleagues to develop consistent departmental approach

Reflective Questions for Faculty GenAI Use

  • Does using GenAI enhance my teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes?
  • How can I model responsible AI use for my students?
  • Am I maintaining my expertise and critical judgment when using AI assistance?
  • Does my AI use align with my discipline's professional standards?
  • How can I help students develop both AI literacy and critical thinking skills?
  • What are the long-term implications of AI integration in my field?

Support and Resources at MSU-Northern

  • Consult with OTLE for pedagogical guidance on AI integration
  • Work with IT Services for technical security questions
  • Collaborate with the Library for research and information literacy support
  • Engage with Academic Affairs for policy development
  • Connect with other Faculty for institution-wide AI discussions, whether through Tech Snacks opportunities, workshops, or at college meetings

Remember that responsible AI use in academia requires ongoing reflection and adaptation as these technologies continue to evolve. Your role as an educator includes helping students navigate this new technological landscape while maintaining academic excellence and integrity.