AI Guide for TTC Students

Generative AI presents a lot of opportunities for student learning.

Among many other things, AI can be used as a study tool to create flashcards, generate ideas, further explain a confusing concept, or quiz you on a topic. In addition, in some cases, your instructor may allow you to use generative AI during certain stages of your assignments - like creating an outline for a research paper. 

Before using generative AI to help you complete an assignment - it is important to remember to check your instructor's classroom policies.  Always remember that failure to do so may result in a lower grade or questions of plagiarism.

Hallucinations

Sometimes when a generative AI tool cannot find information to answer your prompt, it will invent an answer. Hallucinations refer to instances when large language models generate factually inaccurate or illogical answers, attributed to limitations in data and architecture.

• To avoid this - don't just trust AI. Always check information against verifiable sources. (Check TTC's Online library). 

Copyright and Training Data Issues

AI is trained on lots of sources on the internet - good, bad, and sometimes copyrighted. These tools can plagiarize by directly copying or referencing text without attribution. They can also present false information when the source data is inaccurate or outdated.

• To avoid this - always make sure the final work is your own. Only use AI to assist or supplement - not complete - an assignment. 

• Don't just trust AI. Always check information against verifiable sources. (Check TTC's Online library). 

• Make sure you cite your sources.

Bias and Fairness

AI is trained on datasets which may unintentionally perpetuate societal biases and stereotypes.

• To avoid this, be aware that the information presented by the AI tool may have biases.

• Always evaluate the information and look for multiple sources to find a balanced view. (Check TTC's Online library)

Overreliance on AI

Overreliance on AI tools can hinder critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• To avoid this, always make sure the final work is your own. Only use AI to assist or supplement - not complete - an assignment.

• Always check information against verifiable sources. (Check TTC's Online library)

Data Privacy and Security

• Never use sensitive personal information while using generative AI tools. Because these tools are trained on our data, you may be risking your privacy and security.