ITS Generative AI

This webpage was last updated on June 28, 2024 and is subject to change.

What is Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)?

GenAI is a branch of artificial intelligence that specializes in creating new content.  It works by learning from vast amounts of information collected on the internet, applications or user input.  It leverages complex algorithms (aka "models") to generate new content that reflects what it has learned.

GenAI has the potential to revolutionize the way we work and learn.  USF welcomes innovation by exploring the exciting possibilities of GenAI 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.

Key Factors To Consider When Using GenAI

DATA SECURITY
AND PRIVACY
RESPONSIBLE
USE
ACADEMIC
INTEGRITY
WARNINGS
And AWARENESS

DO NOT input sensitive data such as PII/SPII, Internal, Confidential, or Highly Confidential data.

DO NOT input FERPA-protected information.

DO NOT use University data without appropriate authorization and consent.

Comply with FERPA, privacy laws, Guidelines for Responsible Use, and Information Security Policy.

Be transparent about how GenAI is employed.

Take into consideration accessibility, ethical, and inclusion aspects of GenAI use.

Adhere to USF's Academic Integrity & Honor Code.

Check ETS's resources including GenAI Guidelines for Academic Integrity and course design and planning.

Refer to your School & Faculty to provide additional instructions as needed.

Validate and verify output for accuracy, bias, and hallucinations.

Appropriate treatment of copyrighted material.

Stay alert & report any phishing emails and "deepfakes" (i.e. video/audio mimicking an individual without their consent).

Get Started with GenAI

SUBMIT A NEW TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT (NTA)

Start here and review appropriate data levels to be used with AI tools.

USF has approved a limited number of AI applications.  Before you use a free or purchase any new technology or tech service, it is subject to an ITS review and approval to ensure data privacy, security & technical alignment.

SCHEDULE AN ETS CONSULTATION ON GENAI

If you would like to consult with an expert regarding how to incorporate or restrict GenAI in your curriculum or receive 1:1 training on a GenAI tool, please schedule a session with an ETS team member.

Take LinkedIn Learning Course on AI

Learn more about the possibilities of GenAI and how to safely use it.

Learn-at-your-own pace courses, log in to LinkedIn Learning and click for AI Courses.

SIGN UP FOR ETS TRAINING on GENAI

ETS offers a suite of GenAI classes related to learning, teaching and administration. Register for training.

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*
Enterprise Administered Applications Applications that have undergone the New Technology Assessment process and are administered by USF.

Zoom AI Assistant

Cvent AI Assistant

 USF-Administered Internal
AI chatbots AI chatbots capable of generating text, audio and images.

OpenAI ChatGPT

Claude

Perplexity

Google Gemini

 Publicly-available
(free and paid subscriptions)		 Public
Academic and Instruction Applications Applications used for course content, etc.

Turnitin

Grammarly

 Publicly-available
(free and paid subscriptions)		 Public
Administrative Applications Applications used for productivity, such as summarization, categorization, analysis and content creation.

Notion.ai

Acrobat AI Assistant

 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.

 

Policies and Resources