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Generative artificial intelligence: Use at University

  AI tools at Uni

         Green icon from "Stellated Tricontahedron: Neural Networking" by The Playful Geometer is licensed under CC BY 2.0

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence tools are “computing systems that can engage in human-like processes such as learning, adapting, synthesizing, self-correction and use of data for complex processing tasks” (Popenici & Kerr, 2017, p. 2).

  • AI that is trained to learn and advance independently to make predictions or decisions
  • As they work with more data, the quality of their responses improves over time
  • Subcategory of machine learning
  • Learns via multiple layers of neurons or circuits, like the human brain
  • Learn and improve independently
  • Forms the basis of many AI applications
  • Trained via deep learning to create new material, e.g. images, text, audio, code, by learning from patterns in its training data
  • A generative AI that learns from large amounts of text-based training data
  • Generates text responses like human writing e.g., ChatGPT or Copilot

DeepSeek

DeepSeek is an open artificial intelligence tool (like ChatGPT). The Federation has restricted the use of DeepSeek AI within the Federation University Australia network due to data security concerns.

DeepSeek is a new artificial intelligence tool (like ChatGPT). Like all AI models, it can collect, store and reuse any data you provide. However, there are major security risks associated with the technology that you should be aware of.

Lack of data encryption

  • Messages sent and received through DeepSeek are not protected from third party collection.

Device monitoring

  • DeepSeek collects extensive information from devices it's used on, including audio files, chat and search history, keystroke patterns, IP addresses and activity from other applications.

Foreign ownership

  • Data received by DeepSeek is owned and stored outside Australia and can therefore be used for any purpose (which violates Federation University privacy agreements).

Different legislation

  • DeepSeek is not subject to Australian legislation or governance.

We recommend Microsoft's Copilot because it has better built-in data security, and Microsoft is an approved University provider. However, we still urge you to be highly cautious when using any AI tools, particularly around sharing personal or sensitive data.

ITS knowledge article:

Always check the settings on AI software before you start using it. For instance:

  • We strongly encourage you to turn off the storage of your data
  • Switch off any settings for training the broader AI model
  • Turn off access to your chat history or the data stored in your device, and
  • f the AI software requires significant access to your computer, device or data, do not use it.