AI Guidelines

Do's

• Review Radford's Acceptable Use Policy for University Computers and Information Technology Systems.
• Review AI-generated content for accuracy before using or sharing the information.
• Use only Radford-approved AI tools when dealing with university data.
• Maintain compliance with applicable commonwealth and federal laws and regulations (e.g. FERPA, HIPPA).
• Maintain human oversight by reviewing AI-generated content. Users remain accountable for the accuracy, appropriateness, and use of content generated with AI assistance.
• Clearly cite AI-generated content where appropriate.
• For departments that implement AI tools, periodically evaluate for continued use.
• Respect copyright, licensing, and intellectual property requirements when using AI-generated content.

Don'ts

• Don't use Radford University credentials to create an account or sign in to publicly available Generative AI tools unless the tool has been approved by the university.
• Don't enter confidential, sensitive, or otherwise restricted university information into AI tools unless the tool has been approved for that purpose and data is authorized for use.
• Don't use AI tools with the intent to commit unlawful activity, including but not limited to fraud or impersonating another individual.
• Don't use any AI tool output that discriminates based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic.
• Don't implement or deploy AI tools before performing an appropriate assessment or risk review.

Benefits

When used responsibly, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can improve efficiency, enhance productivity, and support everyday work.

• Productivity Improvement: Automate and streamline repetitive tasks.
• Brainstorming Assistance: Generate ideas, outlines, and various approaches.
• Information Summary: Summarize lengthy documents and meeting notes for faster review.
• Content Outline Drafts: Organize ideas prior to writing.
• Research Support: Provide a starting point and identify relevant information.

Risks

Like any technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has limitations and risks that should be considered before relying on AI-generated content.

• Bias: Based on AI's training data, its output may reflect biases.
• Privacy Concerns: Never enter confidential or sensitive information into AI tools. Sensitive information is personally identifiable information that can lead to identity theft exposure. Data examples include Social Security Number, driver’s license information, passport or visa information, bank information, credit or debit card numbers, or health information.
• Copyright and Intellectual Property: AI-generated content is still subject to licensing, intellectual property, or copyright restrictions.
• Obsolete or Inaccurate Information: AI may generate outdated or incorrect information.
• Hallucinations: AI can generate responses that sound convincing, but are factually incorrect or fabricated. Always verify output before relying on it.