The University of Utah has introduced a tailored version of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, dubbed ChatGPT Edu, designed specifically for higher education. This secure deployment allows students, faculty, and staff to utilize generative AI tools effectively within the academic environment. Users can gain access by submitting a request through the University IT’s Service Catalog and will receive an email with login instructions.
Chief AI Officer Manish Parashar stated, “We’ve been steadily building a foundation for responsible AI across campus, and ChatGPT Edu represents a major leap forward. The U is at the forefront of reimagining how we teach, learn and research in the age of generative AI, and ChatGPT Edu will help us maintain an edge.” Parashar emphasized the tool’s alignment with the university’s values and its optimization for academic work.
Data protection remains a paramount concern as the university continues to vet AI tools. Notably, ChatGPT Edu will not utilize any university data for its training, enhancing security over personal accounts. The university has implemented extensive security measures to ensure the responsible use of this advanced AI tool.
Usage Guidelines and Features
- Utilization of ChatGPT Edu is recommended for all university-related tasks, rather than personal accounts. This ensures enhanced features and higher data privacy standards tailored for academic use.
- ChatGPT Edu may be used for any work that does not involve sensitive or restricted data, as defined by university guidelines. Currently, hospital and clinic personnel do not have access while the university evaluates compliance with healthcare data protection requirements.
- Faculty and students are encouraged to review university AI policies for effective and responsible usage.
Capabilities of ChatGPT Edu
- Latest OpenAI models and advanced capabilities: Users can gather insights, access real-time information, and collaborate through text, voice, and images.
- Canvas and custom GPTs: The tool enables collaboration for writing, coding, and brainstorming, as well as the creation of tailored AI experiences.
- AI image generation: Users can create visuals from simple text descriptions without requiring design skills.
- Future enhancements: The university plans to collaborate with OpenAI to establish a process for users to purchase credits for accessing advanced features of ChatGPT. Further details will be communicated via the AI Office’s email list.
Training and Support Resources
- The university is partnering with OpenAI to provide a campus-wide ChatGPT Essentials virtual training session on January 23. Interested individuals can register for the Zoom webinar, with recordings available at ai.utah.edu.
- OpenAI will also train over 100 faculty, staff, and students by December 8 to lead additional training sessions, with further opportunities for interested trainers to get involved.
- Sample prompts will be available for both students and faculty to maximize the effectiveness of the tool.
- A webinar series featuring best practices for using ChatGPT will also be conducted.
Since the launch of the One-U Responsible AI Initiative by President Taylor Randall in late 2023, the University of Utah has made significant strides in its mission to harness AI for societal benefits. Various departments are integrating AI into their research, operations, and teaching methodologies, supported by new academic programs and initiatives. The Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence has played a crucial role in guiding faculty on how to effectively leverage AI to improve learning outcomes. The introduction of ChatGPT Edu further empowers the university community, enhancing its leadership in the responsible adoption of impactful AI technologies.
University community members can subscribe to email updates from the AI Office to stay informed about new tools, guidelines, and more.
