In general, most free generative AI tools keep the prompts, data and other information you provide in return for use of the tool. Any information you provide to these models and the results they return may become public and are available for the AI tool to use and iterate on for all users, including those outside Mizzou. Understanding your tools, the data you are working with and how these two fit together helps you use AI responsibly.
The university supports responsible use of AI tools, though there are important considerations to keep in mind when using these tools, including information security, data privacy, compliance, intellectual property/copyright implications, academic integrity and bias.
Guidelines
- Use university-approved and accessed AI tools, such as Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini, when using university data.
- Different AI tools are approved for different levels of use and data. Follow the university’s Data Classification System when entering information into these tools.
- Before using AI tools, check with your department for any specific policies or guidelines. To meet BPM 12004, IT Compliance must review and approve each software use case.
Academics and AI policies
The MU Faculty Council on University Policy has approved several policies related to the use of AI in the classroom. Refer to the Faculty Handbook (section XIV, Additions to the Faculty Handbook) for the following policies:
- AI Syllabus Statement (section F)
- AI Use Scale Policy (section H)
- AI Grading and Feedback Policy (section J)
- AI Detection Tools Policy (section K)