Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming higher education, offering new opportunities for enhancing teaching, learning, and administrative processes. This primer aims to provide a clear understanding of the various forms of AI, the unique risks they pose, and considerations for adopting AI solutions. Faculty and staff can use this guide to make informed decisions about integrating AI into their work.

Understanding Different Forms of AI

AI comes in several forms, each with its own capabilities and applications. Traditional AI systems use predefined rules and algorithms to perform specific tasks like spam filtering, recommendation systems, and predictive analytics. These systems are highly effective in tasks that involve pattern recognition and data processing based on set rules.

Generative AI, on the other hand, can create new content based on the data it has been trained on. Examples include text generation tools like ChatGPT, image creation software like DALL-E, and music composition AI. Generative AI can produce unique outputs, making it useful for creative and academic purposes, such as generating essays, artwork, or research summaries.

Finally, Agentic AI represents a more advanced form of AI that can act autonomously and adapt to new situations. These systems, like autonomous vehicles and intelligent personal assistants (e.g., Siri, Alexa), operate independently and make decisions without direct human intervention. This capability allows for more dynamic and responsive applications in various educational settings.

Recognizing AI Risks

While AI offers numerous benefits, it also introduces unique risks that need careful consideration. One significant risk is bias and fairness. AI systems can perpetuate and even amplify biases present in their training data, leading to unfair treatment or outcomes. For instance, an AI tool used for student admissions might favor certain demographics if the underlying data is biased.

Transparency and explainability are also crucial concerns. Many AI models, especially deep learning ones, are often seen as "black boxes" with decision-making processes that are not easily understood. This lack of transparency can be problematic in educational contexts where understanding and justifying decisions are essential.

Data privacy is another critical risk. AI systems often require large datasets, which can include sensitive or personal information. Ensuring that AI tools comply with data privacy regulations and institutional policies is essential to protect student and staff information.

In addition to these unique risks, AI exacerbates common software risks such as security vulnerabilities. AI systems can introduce new attack vectors, like adversarial attacks where inputs are manipulated to deceive the AI. Dependence and reliability are also concerns; over-reliance on AI systems can lead to significant issues if they fail or provide incorrect outputs. Ethical considerations, such as the autonomy of AI systems and accountability for their actions, must also be addressed to ensure responsible use.

Be cautious of terms of service (TOS) for AI solutions, as they might grant the AI service a license to use your content without restriction. This could mean the AI can use, share, or repurpose your content in ways you did not intend. It's crucial to review TOS carefully and understand the implications before using AI services.

Making Informed Decisions

When considering AI solutions, it's important to weigh the benefits against the risks to make informed decisions. Start by identifying your specific needs and objectives. Determine what you aim to achieve with AI and how it aligns with your goals.

Evaluate the AI capabilities carefully to ensure they meet your requirements. Understand the potential risks associated with the AI solution and consider how they might impact your work. Engage with others at the institution to gain insights and support. Some units can help assess the AI tools and provide guidance on mitigating risks while others can share their firsthand experiences.

Pay special attention to the terms of service for any AI solution. Ensure that you fully understand the licensing agreements and the rights you are granting to the AI service. If the terms are not acceptable, consider negotiating them or looking for alternative solutions that better protect your content and comply with institutional policies.

Staying informed about the latest developments and best practices in AI is also crucial. Continuous learning and adaptation will enable you to leverage AI's benefits while addressing potential issues effectively.

Conclusion and Recommended Reading

AI holds great promise for higher education, offering innovative solutions to enhance various academic and administrative processes. However, it also brings challenges and risks that require careful consideration. By understanding these aspects, faculty and staff can make informed decisions that harness the power of AI while safeguarding their institutions and stakeholders.

For further information or assistance, please refer to the following resources. They provide additional information and support to help you navigate the complexities of AI.

The Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence by the ISU Committee for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence

Teaching in the Age of GenAI by the ISU Center for Integrated Professional Development

Recommendations on the Use of Generative AI in Research and Scholarly Activity by the ISU Research Office