What is Generative AI?
Generative AI refers to a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content - like text, images, music, and even video - based on patterns it has learned from large sets of data. Unlike traditional AI, which analyzes data or performs specific tasks, generative AI models like ChatGPT or DALL-E are designed to generate new, human-like content based on prompts provided by users.
These tools can assist with brainstorming, drafting content, creating visuals, coding, and more, making them powerful aids for teaching, research, and academic administration. However, their advanced capabilities also come with unique considerations for higher education.
Data Security and Academic Integrity Considerations
Data Security
Generative AI tools often process prompts and data through external servers, which can raise privacy and confidentiality concerns, especially when working with sensitive student or institutional data. It's essential to avoid inputting any personal, proprietary, or sensitive information into these systems, as data entered might be stored or analyzed further by the AI providers.
Academic Integrity
With the ease of generating written or visual content, generative AI tools present challenges in maintaining academic standards and integrity. For instance, students might use AI to produce essays or complete assignments, potentially blurring the lines of originality and personal effort. Faculty should set clear guidelines about AI usage, encouraging students to use these tools as supplements to their learning rather than replacements for their work.
By embracing generative AI with a cautious and informed approach, faculty can harness its benefits while upholding the standards and security essential to the academic environment.
Recent AI Headlines: What You Need to Know
On January 31, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a ban on certain Chinese government-based AI and social media applications, citing concerns over cybersecurity and data privacy. This ban is a proactive step to safeguard sensitive data, prevent potential security risks, and uphold the integrity of our technology infrastructure.
According to the Office of the Texas Governor:
Governor Abbott [has] ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Department of Information Resources to add the following technologies to the state's prohibited technologies list, which prohibits state employees and contractors from downloading and using these apps on state-owned or personal devices used for work:
- RedNote
- DeepSeek
- Webull
- Tiger Brokers
- Moomoo
- Lemon8
For the full announcement, go to: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-ban-on-chinese-ai-social-media-apps