Artificial Intelligence: Appropriate Use of Generative AI Tools
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving and changing many aspects of teaching, learning, research, and our work at the University of Minnesota. As these tools become more readily available, it is crucial to understand how to safeguard data and use them appropriately in your role at the University.
Initial Guidelines
- Data classified as Public data can be used freely in Generative AI platforms, such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot.
- Review examples of Public data.
- In all cases, use must be consistent with the University’s Data Security Classification policy and Ethics policy.
- Any implementation of artificial intelligence is subject to the review process for software purchases, including the vendor review process.
Guidance on Appropriate Use
- Work within the current Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources policy and understand your responsibilities.
- AI tools can generate incomplete or biased responses, so any output should be closely reviewed and verified by a human.
- AI-generated code should not be used for institutional IT systems and services unless it is reviewed by a technologist with appropriate skills.
- The University of Minnesota has approved use of several AI tools. Reference the available tool pages for the classification of data can be used.
- Faculty and researchers must understand the AI policies of granting and research agencies they work with due to variances in policy approaches.
Input Licensing Restrictions
Publishers typically prohibit (through licensing) upload of research, magazine, and newspaper articles (including those used for course readings) to third-party services like AI tools. Do not upload materials produced by others or licensed materials unless you have explicit permission or the material is covered under a known exemption or license. For more information read the Libraries Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources.
Contract Policy
Agreement to any software’s terms and conditions, including clickwrap user agreements, are contracts and must be performed by the person with delegated authority to act on behalf of the University. Regents' Policies Relating to Contracts require that all such terms are submitted to UMN’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) for review before acceptance to ensure the University is not entered into a legally-binding contract with the vendor without adequate counsel.
See the Contract and Privacy Review section of the Review Process for UMN Software Purchases self-help guide.