ETS GenAI 2025 April Mockup1
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to technology that can perform tasks that typically require human judgment, including understanding language, recognizing patterns, and making decisions. AI is embedded in many tools you may already use, including search engines, email filters, and productivity software.
AI is impacting how we work, teach, and learn. USF welcomes innovation by exploring the exciting possibilities of AI tools, but there are important considerations and Guidelines for Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at USF when using these tools, including information security and data privacy, compliance, copyright, and academic integrity.
Generative AI
Generative AI (GenAI) is a subset of AI that creates new content (text, images, code, audio, and video) in response to prompts. Tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini are generative AI. So are AI features built into tools you may already use, such as Zoom, Grammarly, and Adobe Acrobat. GenAI works by learning patterns from large datasets, then producing outputs that reflect what it has learned.
Key Factors To Consider When Using GenAI
Application Matrix
USF is cautiously and judiciously exploring Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) as a means to improve its operations, increase productivity and support learning and instruction. While Gen AI can bring significant benefits, ill-conceived and rushed deployments may introduce risks to data privacy and security.
If you’re considering using Generative AI tools, you must follow the University's Technology Resources Appropriate Use Policy, Information Security Policy, and Guidelines for Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at USF. All technology and technology services must undergo a data privacy, security and technical evaluation as part of the New Technology Assessment process and you may submit your request using this form.
| Application Type | Overview | Examples | Availability | Highest Level Data Classification Allowed* |
| Academic and Instruction Applications | GenAI applications used for course content, etc. | Publicly-available (free and paid subscriptions) |
Public | |
| Enterprise Administered Applications | Applications that have undergone the New Technology Assessment process and are administered by USF. | USF-Administered | Internal | |
| AI chatbots | AI chatbots capable of generating text, audio and images. | Publicly-available (free and paid subscriptions) |
Public | |
| Administrative Applications | Applications used for productivity, such as summarization, categorization, analysis and content creation. | Publicly-available (free and paid subscriptions) |
Public | |
|
*Any data above the permitted classification level must only be entered into GenAI tools that have been assessed and explicitly approved for such use by the CIO. Be mindful of FERPA and HIPAA-protected data. |
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Getting Started with AI
Training & Certificate Program
Earn your GenAI Certificate by completing 5 or more AI courses plus a short final project–designed to build real fluency with AI tools and practices in teaching and learning.
LinkedIn Learning Courses
Our staff-curated list brings together relevant AI courses in one place. You’ll also find many hands-on courses and projects that include practice activities, built-in feedback, and a Certificate of Completion.
Upskill Yourself
USF Syllabus Statements for GenAI
Select a customizable syllabus statement to fit your course. Review the USF Syllabus Statements for AI »
Need Some Guidance?
If you would like learn how to incorporate AI in your curriculum, please contact us for a consultation/training session.
Last updated: May 20, 2026