Artificial Intelligence Literacy
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as text generation, image creation, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation (Ng et al., 2021). At its core, AI is about creating machines that can "think" and learn similarly to humans using algorithms to process vast amounts of data and derive insights.
With the rise of free generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, the potential of AI technologies has become more accessible and understandable. The increasing variety of user-friendly applications makes AI more integrated into daily life, especially within universities and educational settings.
As these technologies advance and new applications continue to emerge, developing AI literacy is increasingly vital. Unit 6 will help you build a foundational understanding of AI literacy, enabling you to engage with these technologies thoughtfully and responsibly.
"Generative AI has the potential to change the world in ways that we can't even imagine." Bill Gates, Co-Founder of Microsoft |
What is AI?
B: Different generative AI tools
A variety of generative AI tools are accessible, with some being free, others requiring account creation, and some available through subscriptions. Below, we have highlighted the most popular and useful tools for students, along with a description of their applications.
Please note that the inclusion of these tools on this page does not imply an endorsement by Sol Plaatje University.
D: The current limitations of GenAI
A significant concern is that, without appropriate technology and safeguards, the LLMs powering GenAI tools are susceptible to "hallucinations." This term refers to instances where the tool provides inaccurate or entirely fabricated information. In academic GenAI applications, such hallucinations could manifest as fictitious research findings, references, or author names.
Concerns also exist regarding the transparency of AI, as it can be challenging to evaluate them without clarity about the data used for training or the safeguards implemented to ensure their reliability.
E: Responsible Use of AI in Academics
Best Practices for Using AI in Your Studies
- Double-Check Facts: Use AI tools to assist with research but always verify information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy.
- Don’t Rely Fully on AI for Writing: AI can help you get started, but try to add your own perspective and voice to assignments.
- Reflect on Ethical Use: If you use AI tools for assistance, consider the ethical implications, especially regarding plagiarism and originality in your work.
Evaluation Checklist for AI-Generated Content
- Accuracy: Is the information correct and complete?
- Relevance: Does it fit the context of your assignment?
- Source: Where does the AI tool get its information from?
- Bias: Does it reflect any cultural or language bias?
Assessment
A: Generative AI for Education and Everyday Use
What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to AI tools that can create new content—like text, images, and even music—based on the inputs (prompts) they receive. For example, ChatGPT can help generate ideas for assignments, write summaries, or answer questions.
How Can You Use Generative AI?
- Writing Support: AI tools like ChatGPT can assist you with brainstorming ideas or drafting content for assignments.
- Language Translation: Many AI apps support language translation for African languages. Google Translate, for example, allows students to translate phrases between isiXhosa, Setswana, English, and more.
- Research Help: AI tools can summarize articles, suggest additional sources, and help you refine your research question.
Consider This!
AI tools are helpful but are not perfect. They may sometimes make mistakes or fail to understand cultural context. Always double-check AI-generated information to ensure it’s correct and relevant to your assignment or research.
C: Ethical Considerations in AI
Understanding Bias and Fairness in AI
AI learns from data, which means it can sometimes pick up biases from the information it’s trained on. For example, if an AI tool has only been exposed to English or Afrikaans content, it may struggle to understand isiZulu or Setswana accurately. This can lead to unfair results, especially in contexts where diversity and inclusivity are important.
Privacy and Security When using AI, be mindful of privacy. Many AI tools store data you provide, so avoid sharing personal information unless you are sure it’s secure. Apps and platforms you interact with might collect and store your data, so read privacy agreements and terms.
Case Study
Imagine a recruitment tool used to hire students for internships. If the AI was trained primarily on English-speaking applicants, it might struggle with applications in isiXhosa or Sesotho. This could unfairly affect some students’ chances.
F: SPU Guidelines On the Use of Artificial Intelligence
Ensure Ethical AI Use
DO: Use AI transparently, fairly, and without reinforcing biases or misinformation. Follow institutional guidelines and ethical best practices.
DON’T: Misuse AI for plagiarism, deceptive practices, or generating misleading content that could harm credibility and trust.
G: How to use Generative AI tools the right way
How to prompt ChatGPT
- Give some context and detailed instructions on how to formulate the results, eg table, graphs, paragraph, etc.
- Keep asking for a revision until you are satisfied with the results generated
Example
"I have an assignment, and I need help with the psychological impact of cyberbullying among teenagers. Please give me 5 topics related to cyberbullying. Add a structure of an essay on this topic"
- Make sure you follow the links provided to verify the information
- Look up the source that AI provides
- Take the topic and structure it into keywords to search the library databases or Google Scholar
- Acknowledge the use of AI tools.