September 4, 2024 (OTTAWA, ON) – Canada’s leading research universities have issued guidance on the use and integration of generative AI in academic teaching and learning. Following the rapid adoption of generative AI tools, the guidance comes as students and teachers return to campus for the start of the Fall semester amid growing questions about the impact of these new tools on academic education. Developed by the U15 Academic Affairs Committee, which comprises academic provosts leading educational activities across U15 universities, the paper aims to establish leading guidance on how universities can effectively navigate the use of generative AI.
As part of U15 Canada’s continued mandate to provide leadership and stewardship of the post-secondary sector, the paper outlines a set of values, principles and best practices to assist academics, teachers and students from across U15 Canada and beyond with the responsible, ethical and appropriate use of AI. Produced in consultation with leading experts in AI adoption, the guidance affirms the importance of these tools and the opportunities they present for teaching, while outlining leading practices for their appropriate use. The guidance will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect emerging best practices across Canada and internationally
“We know that teachers, students and parents have serious questions about how AI is being used in classrooms and labs and what these tools mean for the quality, integrity and transparency of post-secondary education. Building on emerging best practices from across Canada’s leading research universities, U15 Canada’s paper aims to provide both teachers and students with the tools they need to navigate these rapid changes”, said Dr. Chad Gaffield, CEO of U15 Canada.
“Alongside serious challenges, we know that there are real opportunities to improve and expand learning with the appropriate use of AI and U15 Canada’s paper affirms the important potential these tools can help unlock. As students and teachers return to campus this fall, our hope is that this guidance will help build on those opportunities and mitigate the risks for all”, added Dr. Gaffield.
The guidance paper “Navigating AI in Teaching and Learning” is available online.
About U15 Canada
U15 Canada is an association of fifteen leading research universities across Canada. U15 Canada works to optimize research and innovation policies and programs that advance knowledge, develop highly-qualified leaders for all sectors, and mobilize knowledge for the benefit of all Canadians. In this way, U15 Canada seeks to help Canadian universities make a prosperous, sustainable and just future for all.
For further information, please contact:
James Hammond, Director of Public Affairs
613-715-4764
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