Last updated: September 2, 2025
Navigating Generative AI at UBC: A Guide for the New Academic Year
Generative AI are rapidly transforming various sectors, including education. While these tools offer exciting possibilities for enhancing teaching and learning, it's crucial to utilize them responsibly and securely within the UBC context.
Safeguarding Your Input
It is essential to prioritize data privacy and security when utilizing these tools. Here are some key points to remember:
- Utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN): Mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic by using a VPN. UBC offers a free service called myVPN.
- Protect Sensitive Data: Avoid entering any personally identifiable information, sensitive UBC data, or intellectual property into these tools. Restrict your input to "Low Risk" information, which refers to publicly releasable data.
Responsible Use of Outputs and Setting Boundaries for Students
While GenAI holds immense potential, it's important to be mindful of its limitations:
- Fact-checking is Essential: Always verify the accuracy of AI-generated content before sharing or using it in decision-making processes. GenAI tools are susceptible to generating inaccurate or misleading information, also known as "hallucinations".
- Copyright Considerations: Understand and address potential copyright implications associated with using AI-generated content. Ensure proper source attribution and adhere to any usage policies specific to the GenAI tool employed.
- Syllabus Statements: Clearly outline your expectations regarding GenAI use within your course syllabus. The UBC Academic Integrity website provides recommended language for crafting such statements.
Additional Considerations
- GenAI Detection Tools: Currently, UBC does not endorse the use of any GenAI-detection tools due to concerns surrounding accuracy and potential bias.
- Grading with GenAI: Using GenAI tools for grading student work is strictly prohibited due to copyright and privacy concerns.