Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is likely the type of AI that you think about when you think about AI! Generative Al uses machine learning algorithms and existing data from a vast range of digital sources to learn patterns to then generate human-like material, including text, images and video. Examples of generative AI include ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.
Generative AI is an extremely powerful tool that you can use to assist in your coursework in many ways. Below is a list of some of those possibilities. However, it's always a wise idea to discuss the use of AI in your coursework with your professor to ensure you're following instructions and course guidelines. And, it should be noted that in September of 2024 Columbus State added AI to the Student Code of Conduct.
Ways to Utilize AI:
1. You can use AI as a brainstorming tool! Generative AI can generate a lot of ideas very quickly. Use it to brainstorm anything from research topics to keywords to search in library databases - so ask away!
2. Use AI to tackle your writer's block! While you don't want to use AI to write your paper for you, if you are stuck on a certain topic, idea, or even how to phrase a concept, you can ask AI for suggestions on how to convey an idea in writing. Just remember to reword the idea in your own unique writer's voice!
3. Use AI to "think" from a different point of view! If you give the AI a role, like asking it to act as a teacher, engineer, etc., the AI will answer you according to its new "job". This can help you understand how people other than you would understand or approach a situation.
Adapted from Ethan Mollick's article "15 Times to use AI, and 5 Not to".
Generative AI's goal is simple: it wants to please you, the user! However, this means that AI will make stuff up (also known as "hallucinations") to provide you with answers to your questions, even if they aren't factual or true! Always make sure to fact check the information you receive from Generative AI, especially if you are using the information for an important purpose, like writing a final research paper or making a big personal decision!
