Frequently Asked Questions

A. Not yet. Existing University Guidelines and Policies address acceptable use of AI, just as they address acceptable use of software. As AI tools continue to evolve, the University may introduce new policies or policy guidance as needed.

A. See Tools and Technology.

A. By using tools listed as approved on Tools and Technology, staying informed through this website, and submitting new requests and questions via the Support Form. The AI leadership team is also working with the Institutional Review Board to streamline AI-related reviews. 

A. Yes, but any AI functionality—even in licensed software—must be evaluated for data handling, privacy, and security compliance before use. University IT works to evaluate such features as quickly as possible, but if you have a question or concern about a new AI feature, use the Support Form to get in touch.  

A. The University is evaluating energy-efficient infrastructure and supporting research into sustainable AI practices.  

A. Restricted or sensitive data, as defined by Rule 4-004C, can only be used with tools that have been approved for such use. See Tools and Technology for the current list of approved tools and read more about Guidelines and Policies. 

A. The University is working on guidelines to expedite the approval of tools depending on use and provide flexibility for those working with public data, as defined by Rule 4-004C. In the meantime, even if you're not working with sensitive or restricted data (like protected health information or student records), you should still use University-approved tools to ensure compliance with privacy, security, and intellectual property standards. See Tools and Technology for the most up-to-date list of approved tools and read more about Guidelines and Policies.

A. Unless a tool has been vetted by the University, we can’t be sure that University data will be handled appropriately. As long as employees use only approved tools—and use them only within the authorized scope—we’ve been assured that University data will not be mishandled.

A. No. Approved enterprise tools are configured to prevent training on University data.

A. First, be sure to understand your data classification (Rule 4-004C)​ and explore what solutions are already available or could be created using a tool listed as approved on Tools and Technology. If you want to request a new AI tool, use the Support Form. Tools must go through a procurement and security review process. This ensures vendors and the use of institutional data are evaluated by IT, information security, legal counsel, and other stakeholders as necessary. Stakeholders will work with you to confirm the following: 

• Grants/sponsors permit the use of AI.
• A confidentiality agreement, data use agreement, data sharing agreement, and/or a business associate agreement are completed as required.
• The vendor won't train on data.
• Data flows through and is stored in only permitted locations.

A. The University is investing in advanced Tools and Technology such as AWS SageMaker Unified Studio and in AI-ready cyberinfrastructure through the Center for High Performance Computing and the Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute.

A.The Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence offers department-level workshops, consultations, an AI 101 Canvas course, and other training-focused events. Visit Teach with AI for more information.

A. It depends on the instructor. Faculty are encouraged to clearly state AI use policies in syllabi and assignments. Visit the Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence for more information.

A. Yes, the Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence has a statement and some additional examples and resources that can be helpful.

A. Microsoft Copilot includes detection features, but the University does not endorse any specific tool due to reliability concerns. Detection should be paired with clear policies and student conversations. Visit the Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence for more information.

A. Yes. Students have free access to enterprise tools once they are approved.

A.Existing guidelines state, “For non-university business or personal use, other platforms can be used but should be done so with the acknowledgement of risks associated with sharing information with AI platforms.” Since students' personal study activities fall under personal use rather than university business, they are not limited to approved AI tools. However, students should be aware of the issues surrounding the use of AI tools, including the following:  

• possible inaccuracies in AI-generated responses  
• potential biases in the output  
• the importance of verifying information  
• the need to maintain academic integrity