About this guide
Tech is a massive part of being a student and researcher. It connects to many aspects of being an active learner and explorer of knowledge. Generative AI (genAI) is a type of artificial intelligence that uses machine learning algorithms to produce or remix content. This content output can be text, imagery, audio, code or other formats.
GenAI tools can be used in many ways in your study or research - to synthesise, create, refine, test, inspire or modify.
This guide provides information about using genAI tools in an ethical, creative and evaluative way. The four main areas covered are:
Types of generative AI
Ethical and evaluative use
How to use and explore
AI research and news
What you need to know about genAI tools
GenAI tools are evolving incredibly quickly. Their impact on education and research is significant and ongoing. GenAI has the potential to support any area of study, everything from creative arts to game and application development.
There are numerous types of generative AI that can create music, art, video, text, code, equations or even a blend of these. The flexibility of these tools provides new ways to create content, explore ideas or to synthesise information.
However, there are important ethical factors to consider when using genAI. We encourage you to explore some of those factors in this guide.
Responsible and ethical use of genAI is dependent on your evaluation skills. Generative AI uses complex algorithms to produce highly realistic content. Which can be difficult to distinguish from content created by a human. This means critical thinking skills are essential to evaluate the authenticity and accuracy of what's been generated.
Tip
When working through this guide, find the pieces and further resources that help you to improve your understanding of genAI tools. To learn even more, visit the genAI study hub, a suite of modules, guides and a glossary to develop your awareness and skills in using genAI.
Key considerations
GenAI is a rapidly evolving technology that impacts the way we create content and solve problems. When using these tools, it's important to think critically and evaluate the reliability, accuracy and context of any content generated.
Bookmark this key Deakin resource for navigating genAI in your study to ensure academic integrity in your use of these tools.
Thinking about using genAI in your research? Read Deakin research integrity guidelines for more information on ethics, bias and the potential benefits. Also explore the Library's GenAI: responsible use in research which unpacks the integrity guidelines.
Attribution and acknowledgement
Crediting creators and attributing content is a core part of academic integrity and of being a digital citizen more broadly. This guide was created by Deakin Library.
The text and layout of 'Using generative AI' is © Deakin University 2023 and licensed under a CC BY NC 4.0