What are generative AI tools?
Generative AI tools have become known to the general public primarily through ChatGPT, an AI chatbot that "understands" human text input and can generate new texts, modify existing ones or summarise them. It can also write code or check for errors. The results are difficult to distinguish from human-made products. To generate a new text, the tool analyses a large amount of provided text data. In addition to text-oriented AI tools, a variety of AI-based image generators are also available that allow images, visualisations or drawings to be created according to text-based specifications or images to be altered. Voice and sound generators or tools for creating and editing video sequences are also now available.
Positioning of the HTWK on dealing with AI
From the perspective of HTWK Leipzig, it is important not to ignore (generative) AI tools. It is to be expected that this new technology will be widely used in the world of work and science in the future. We should therefore address and discuss it consciously and in accordance with the legal regulations in studies and teaching. This is also a prerequisite for limiting potential misuse.
Academic honesty
AI-based tools will eventually become part of everyday student and professional life and - if used sensibly and correctly - can be helpful in completing tasks. They also provide an opportunity to reflect on the meaningfulness of sound scientific work. This also includes the fact that texts or other services generated by AI may not be presented as the student's own work results and may only be used in accordance with university, copyright and data protection regulations.
Empowering students to take responsibility
As a university, we should enable students to understand and weigh up the opportunities and risks of these tools and sensitise them to their use. Given that all tools have their limitations, students should be empowered to review the results of AI-based impulses and only continue working with them once they have been confirmed and, if necessary, revised. As a result, students must be aware that they are always responsible for the results of their work.
