Lesley University AI Guidelines

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Introduction:
• Data Confidentiality and Security: 
• Confirm Accuracy: 
• Accountability for AI-Assisted Decisions:
• Ownership of Content: 
• Academic Integrity: 
• Procurement and Acquisition Procedures: 
• Recording and Compliance: 
• Technical Support: 
• Related Articles:

Introduction:

As members of the Lesley University community embrace generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance productivity, administrative endeavors, and academic excellence, it is paramount to uphold data security, academic integrity, and legal compliance. All users of the university's digital environment must ensure that the use of generative AI platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Bing, and Google’s Gemini, or AI bots such as Parrot AI or Otter.ai adhere to the guidelines below. These guidelines apply to all generative AI tools, whether or not they are named here. This includes AI assistants built into phones, browsers, and other devices, such as Siri on Apple devices or Copilot in Windows.

Data Confidentiality and Security: 

Utilization of generative AI tools with access to confidential data, such as personally identifiable employee records and FERPA-covered student information, is strictly prohibited without prior security and privacy review from the Office of Information Technology.

Confirm Accuracy: 

Despite its utility, AI can be fallible. Users must verify AI-generated content's accuracy by cross-referencing with trusted sources and assessing its context. Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for informed decision-making and maintaining integrity in work.

Accountability for AI-Assisted Decisions:

AI tools don't change your existing responsibilities, nor the university's obligations. An AI-assisted decision is still your decision. And the laws, policies, and procedures that normally apply still apply.

At Lesley, this is especially important when AI is used in ways that affect:

• academic integrity
• admissions and financial aid
• employment and hiring
• University resources and services

In those and similar situations, we encourage the following:

• Keep a person meaningfully involved in the decision, and do not let an AI tool's output stand as the final word.
• Preserve the notice, review, and appeal steps the individual would normally receive.
• Be prepared to explain the basis for a decision without relying on "the AI said so."

Are you considering using AI to support decisions that affect members of the University community? Be sure to consult the relevant office before proceeding. If in doubt, reach out to the Support Hub at help@lesley.edu for guidance.

Ownership of Content: 

Be sure to authenticate ownership of AI-generated content to prevent misinformation and copyright infringement, exercising diligence in assessing citations and verifying the existence of referenced material. All faculty, staff, and students must ensure that AI-generated content adheres to the “Use of Copyrighted Works Policy.”

Be aware: standalone AI-generated content generally isn't eligible for U.S. copyright protection. But if a person substantially shaped it, that involvement may count as an exception. In those cases, content may qualify for copyright or other intellectual property protection.

Keep this in mind if you consider using AI to create work the University intends to own, protect, or publish. Lesley may not be able to claim ownership of AI-generated work the way it would for work created by a person. To avoid this, the creator must contribute meaningful creative input. Consult the appropriate office if ownership matters for your project.

Academic Integrity: 

Generative AI tools must be used in accordance with Lesley University’s Academic Integrity Policy, ensuring that content creation aligns with scholarly standards and ethical principles. 

Procurement and Acquisition Procedures: 

Before acquiring or implementing generative AI systems, users must undergo a comprehensive security review coordinated through the Office of Information Technology, adhering to university procurement protocols and obtaining necessary approvals. Please email it@lesley.edu for a review. 

Recording and Compliance: 

Users must obtain consent from all parties before utilizing AI tools that record audio or transcribe meetings, ensuring compliance with relevant privacy laws and university policies. Meeting hosts reserve the right to secure their meetings to prevent the participation of AI bots.

Technical Support: 

Please note that Lesley University does not provide technical support for utilizing generative AI tools. While many basic AI services are freely available, users are expected to possess a certain level of technological proficiency and are encouraged to utilize self-help documentation and community-based resources for troubleshooting and assistance.

By adhering to these guidelines, Lesley University ensures responsible and ethical utilization of generative AI technologies within its digital environment, fostering a culture of integrity, innovation, and compliance. Violations of university policies through AI may result in sanctions, including revocation of digital privileges and dismissal from the university. 

Related Articles:

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence at Lesley University

Does Lesley Provide Free or Discounted Access to AI Tools?