The Technology

Overview

If we want to use AI effectively as a tool—and also judge when it might be best not to use it—the first step is to understand the technology and how it functions. This section will provide a general overview of generative AI models, specifically large language models (LLM), and how they work as a resource.

While the AI Writer Toolbox can help you learn more about applications of AI in writing, it's important to remember that faculty will have different policies about the use of AI in the classroom. If you are ever in doubt about acceptable applications of AI tools in a specific class, the best thing to do is ask your instructor.

What is Artificial Intelligence?

AI is without a doubt one of the hottest topics in nearly every single field, including higher education. But how does it work, and what can it do? This video gives a brief overview of how AI technology attempts to mimic the human brain and what sets the human touch apart.

What is an LLM?
Most AI platforms that we use and are familiar with today—ChatGPT, Dall-E, Midjourney, Perplexity, Claude, etc.—are large language models (LLMs). Such LLM platforms are able to generate unique language or images in response to a prompt received from a user. However, while the content produced is unique in the sense that no two answers will be the same, it is important to remember that LLMs produce these answers based on probabilities gleaned from the dataset they have been trained on, not from an ability to actively understand and analyze material.

Tutorial

Never used an LLM before? Try out this mini version of ChatGPT, hosted by the AI Pedagogy Project at Harvard University. Just type a question in the chat, look at the response, and think about whether the chatbot has fully responded to the question you wanted answered. If it hasn't, consider how you might improve the question itself to do so.

Though AI is a tool with huge potential, it's still just that: a tool. It's best used to supplement your work, with you taking full accountability for its output and use. AI can help make you better—but remember, it can never replace you!

What AI Technology Can't Do

As we know, AI technology is evolving and improving every day. But it's also true that AI can't exist without human beings working in tandem with it to check and refine outcomes. This video outlines five areas in which AI cannot compete with humans:

understanding complex emotions;
creativity;
ethical decision-making;
contextual understanding;
adapting to new situations.

AI Writing in Academics

AI Writing in Academics.pdf

Refer to our Writing Center handout about AI Writing for a brief overview of the technology, platforms, and potential uses. Download the PDF for your reference.

A People's Guide to AI

People's Guide to AI.pdf

This guide, created by the non-profit organization Allied Media Projects (AMP), breaks down the technology behind artificial intelligence platforms and explains how it is linked to our daily lives.

Evolution and Future of AI: A Caveat

Even as you read this, AI technology is evolving and improving. The further you refine your prompts and reword your questions to achieve your desired response, the more the tool learns. As a result, this resource will also be evolving and updated accordingly in order to keep up.

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