Generative AI tools, underpinned by Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, have become central in the educational landscape. These AI models are trained on vast amounts of data, enabling them to predict and generate text based on input prompts. They are like advanced autocomplete systems, capable of performing a wide array of tasks across various fields. However, it's crucial to remember that LLMs lack human understanding and often make mistakes. There are a few limitations to keep in mind when using GenAI tools.

Key Considerations

1. Bias in AI - AI models can carry biases from their training data or human intervention. These biases can be subtle and vary across LLMs, affecting their responses in terms of gender, race, political affiliations, and more. Students should critically evaluate AI responses to identify and mitigate these biases and are ultimately responsible for their work.
2. AI Hallucination -Generative AI can produce plausible yet incorrect information. Students should not take AI-generated content at face value and should verify any facts provided by AI tools. Larger models like GPT-4 are prone to some degree of fabrication.
3. Navigating Intellectual Property and Authorship Issues - Determining the intellectual property of AI-generated content can be complex. Clear guidelines are needed to define appropriate uses of AI in scenarios such as writing contests and academic papers.
4. Privacy Concerns - When interacting with AI, be cautious about privacy. Data entered into AI models can potentially be used for future training. While some models like ChatGPT offer privacy modes, the overall state of privacy in AI is still evolving, and students should avoid sharing sensitive information. For example, by sharing HCs and LOs, students will be sharing the private information of Minerva University, while Professors who share student’s work for grading, also might be sharing personal information of students.

On the importance of AI Literacy

AI literacy, as defined by Long and Magerko in 2020, is “a set of competencies that enables individuals to critically evaluate AI technologies, communicate, and collaborate effectively with AI, and use AI as a tool online, at home, and in the workplace.” AI literacy is becoming increasingly important in education, not only to prepare students for a rapidly evolving job market where AI skills are essential but also to ensure they can navigate and contribute effectively in an AI-integrated world. 

AI Literacy Programs

1. Elements of AI: This free series of online courses created by MinnaLearn and the University of Helsinki, available in 17 languages, aims to strengthen the AI literacy for non-experts, democratizing the access to knowledge to anyone in the world
2. AI4ALL: This organization offers professional development programs for educators to learn about AI and its applications in education. They also provide resources and support for incorporating AI into the classroom, making it a valuable resource for educators looking to bring AI literacy into their teaching​​.
3. AI Campus: This R&D Project, funded by the German Ministry of Education and Research, offers free online courses, videos and podcasts.
4. Amazon AI Ready: “Amazon aims to provide free AI skills training to 2 million people by 2025.”
5. Microsoft AI Skills: “People can get a Career Essentials certificate after completing free online training on LinkedIn.”
6. Google’s Introduction to Generative AI: “This learning path provides an overview of generative AI concepts, from the fundamentals of large language models to responsible AI principles.”‍
7. IBM Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics.