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Generative Artificial Intelligence

This guide provides documentation about generative artificial intelligence.

Disclaimer:

AI-powered research assistants can be helpful tools for understanding and organizing information, but they should not replace critical thinking or independent research. Always verify sources, think critically about the content, and consult original materials

Some Background on Generative Artificial Intelligence

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) refers to a class of artificial intelligence models that create human-like content, such as text, images, music, or code, based on the large data sets they have been trained on. Check KPU's Guide to Generative AI for more information on GenAI uses at KPU.

 

Types of generative AI models

  • Text Generators: These generate human-like text based on a prompt. Examples: ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Elicit, Research Rabbit.
  • Image Generators: These create new images or art based on input descriptions. Example: DALL·E.
  • Music & Sound Generators: These create music compositions or sound effects. Example: OpenAI's MuseNet.
  • Video Generators: These models can create videos from text prompts or manipulate existing video content. Example: Synthesia

 

How generative AI works

(Source: Victoria University, AI in Education for Students)

 

 

What generative AI can do:

  • always produces something new.
  • responds to prompts at very high speed.
  • generates responses based on the data it has been trained with.
  • is capable of producing coherent, impressive, and diverse content.

 

What generative AI can't do:

  • is not designed to function as a research database.
  • requires a prompt to generate content.
  • relies on the datasets it has been trained on and the information it can access.
  • cannot tell the difference between fact and fiction.
  • is unable to determine what is morally or ethically right or wrong.
  • cannot replace human effort or critical thinking skills.

 

Suggested resources

Using Generative AI for Library Research - Trent University Guide on When to Use ChatGPT for Academic Purposes

Introduction to Generative AI for Undergraduate Students - an online module from McMaster University.

Introduction to AI from Brown University