Policy on the Use of Generative AI at the University

October 1, 2023
Kochi University of Technology

1. University Policy

In view of the fact that the appropriate and effective use of generative AI has great potential to contribute to achieving positive results across various stages of educational and research activities, the University's basic policy is to promote its active use.

However, given that it is presently impossible for generative AI to analyze or describe new findings that do not exist in the current data, or for it to make judgments regarding whether the data is correct or incorrect, please keep the following points in mind when utilizing generative AI. In addition, this Policy will be revised as necessary in accordance with future progress in generative AI technology and its state of adoption in society. Therefore, please make sure to refer to the latest information available.

(1) Possibility of the generation of false or biased information

Generative AI that uses large language models (LLMs) basically creates text by outputting words or phrases with the highest probability of being used after certain words or phrases, so it is possible that AI-generated content contains false or biased information. Please be aware that the information is generated in this manner and make sure to review and corroborate the output content in the same way you would for information found via Internet searches, etc.

(2) Possibility of misconduct

Since most generative AI learns from the massive amount of data on the Internet, using AI-generated information directly may inadvertently implicate you in misconduct such as fabrication, manipulation, plagiarism, or copyright infringement.

When using text, images, programs, etc., generated by or processed with generative AI, please make sure to clearly indicate the name of the tool used, the scope of use, etc., and provide the appropriate citations.

(3) Possibility of leakage of personal information or confidential information

When using generative AI, the content of inquiries and other information entered may be stored and reused depending on the settings, so it is possible that this information may be inadvertently leaked to external parties. In particular, please be careful when handling personal information and confidential research-related information, and make sure not to enter such information.

2. To Students

The essence of academic study at a university is the independent learning of students, and the use of generative AI in classes, assignments, etc., may not aid their own learning. On the other hand, students who understand the features of generative AI well and utilize it effectively may be able to significantly enhance the effectiveness of their academic study.

Depending on the objectives and teaching methods in question, the use of generative AI may be recommended in some classes, but it may also be prohibited for examinations and report assignments. Therefore, please pay attention to and follow the instructions of your class instructors. When using generative AI, please make sure to clearly indicate its use (the type and version of generative AI, the scope of use, etc.). In addition, please distinguish between any AI-generated text, etc., and your own ideas, and provide the appropriate citations.

Please follow the instructions of your academic advisor regarding the use of generative AI in research laboratory activities, including when writing papers such as your graduation thesis.

[Campus only] Guidelines on the Use of Generative AI (Education and Academic Study)

3. To Faculty and Staff

(1) Educational use

Please conduct classes after making sure you have reminded students of the points to keep in mind when using generative AI outlined in 1-(1) through (3) above.

When recommending the use of generative AI by students, please provide them with assignments, etc., that are designed to draw on the features of generative AI to enhance learning effectiveness. For example, you may consider having students explain the reports they have submitted in their own words before grading them.

On the other hand, if you do not recommend the use of generative AI, please remind students by providing adequate explanation of the reasons why the use of generative AI may not aid their learning.

(2) Research-related use

Please make sure you fully understand the points to keep in mind when using generative AI outlined in 1-(1) through (3) above and always pay attention to the code of conduct of the academic body to which you belong and the relevant submission rules when submitting papers, etc. At the same time, please be aware of your ethical and moral responsibilities as a user and strive to exercise due care when using generative AI.

If you wish to go a step further and utilize additional learning of generative AI models in your research activities, please take note of the following points as well.

Generative AI requires a large amount of data, and it is essential to select high-quality data sets. It is also important to pay attention to data collection methods and associated rights, as well as to obtain the appropriate permissions. In addition, as generative AI may learn biases inherent in training data, please adopt the appropriate bias detection and correction methods in order to ensure fair and unbiased results. Moreover, as the operating principles and decision-making processes of AI can be complex and difficult to understand, please make every effort to explain the underlying mechanics and ensure accountability when using generative AI.