In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, technology continues to play a pivotal role in shaping new approaches to teaching and learning. One of the remarkable advancements in this realm is Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that holds immense promise for transforming the way we engage with education.

What is Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Generative AI is a subset of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating, generating, or producing new content, ideas, or data that imitates human-like creativity and thinking. Unlike traditional AI, which is designed to perform specific tasks based on existing data, Generative AI has the remarkable ability to autonomously generate novel content by learning patterns from vast datasets.

Potential Applications in Teaching and Learning

The potential applications of Generative AI in the field of Teaching and Learning are vast and exciting. This innovative technology can be harnessed to enhance various aspects of the education process, providing educators and learners with new tools and opportunities.

  1. Personalized Learning: Generative AI can facilitate personalized learning experiences by tailoring content to individual student needs and learning styles. This technology can adapt and create learning materials that resonate with each student, fostering a more effective and engaging learning journey.

  2. Content Creation and Enhancement: Educators can leverage Generative AI to create interactive and engaging educational content. From generating multimedia presentations to designing interactive simulations, this technology empowers educators to craft compelling materials that captivate students’ attention.

  3. Language Learning: Language acquisition is an integral part of education. Generative AI can aid in language learning by providing language practice exercises, interactive conversations, and even real-time translation tools to bridge linguistic barriers.

  4. Creative Expression and Problem-Solving: Encouraging creativity and critical thinking is essential in education. Generative AI can be used to inspire students’ creativity through artistic creation, writing prompts, and brainstorming sessions.

The University's Position Regarding the Utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning

The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK) is steadfast in its commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies that elevate educational quality, foster academic advancement, and uphold ethical and responsible practices. In acknowledgement of the necessity for clear guidance and optimal approaches, the Open AI Working Group, a collaborative effort involving various entities such as the Vice President (Learning and Student Experience), Information Technology Services Centre (ITSC), Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), Student Affair Office (SAO), Cloud Innovation School (CIS), Library, and faculty members, has taken the proactive step of devising the Open AI ChatGPT Service. This service is intended to cater to the needs of the university community.

The Open AI Working Group has crafted this guideline with the intention of providing HSUHK members a clear orientation. Its primary objective is to support individuals in effectively and ethically utilizing Generative AI. This pertains to both educators and students. Within this guideline, practical recommendations are outlined for the proficient use of Generative AI tools. Of particular importance is the promotion of academic integrity and the fostering of critical thinking abilities within the university populace. Ongoing assessment of advancements in these tools and their application in educational settings will inform potential revisions to this guideline. Community participation is strongly encouraged, as members are invited to contribute their insights, suggestions, and feedback to the Open AI Working Group (vplse@hsu.edu.hk) regarding this guideline. Such valuable input will play a pivotal role in ensuring the guideline’s ongoing relevance and efficacy.

Guidelines for Using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in Teaching and Learning (2023/24) (For All Staff)
Guidelines for Using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in Teaching and Learning (2023/24) (For Students)

The Guidelines for Using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in Teaching and Learning (2023-24) [For Students] offer you a general direction on the use of Generative AI in your learning. They address concerns relating to the ethical and effective use of GAI in the higher education context. The following are the highlights for students’ reference:

HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Take GAI as an enabling tool for your learning, not a necessity.
  2. Communicate with your module instructor to understand the expectations and the role of GAI in the module’s assignments and assessments.
  3. Read the instructions of each assignment carefully and adhere to the guidelines. Clarify with your instructor if you have any doubts or questions about the use of GAI tools for a specific assignment.
  4. Remember always to acknowledge the use of GAI, if any, and credit the GAI tools that were used, even for tasks such as idea generation and brainstorming.
  5. Exercise caution in examinations and in-class assessments. Comply with the rules and follow the guidelines from your instructors concerning the use of AI tools.
  6. Uphold academic integrity. Ensure the originality and authenticity of your work. If you have used GAI in your work, submit the prompt history and indicate your own work on top of the content generated by the AI tool.
  7. Evaluate the AI-generated content against authoritative sources to attain factual accuracy and avoid potential biases.
  8. Seek assistance from SAO’s SEN Team or your teachers to access accommodations that facilitate effective use of AI tools if you have special education needs.
  9. Use HSUHK’s in-house ChatGPT service which offers our students and staff enhanced security and privacy.
  10. Enhance your digital literacy so that you will be able to make the most of AI tools in your learning.
  11. Check whether you require permission to use the AI-generated content from the copyright owner, if applicable.

Please click here for the full version of the guidelines.

Resources and Tools for Implementing Generative AI in Teaching Strategies

Incorporating Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching strategies opens up a realm of innovative possibilities. To facilitate the integration of this technology into your educational practices, we have curated a collection of valuable resources, tools, and software that educators can explore. These resources are designed to empower you with the knowledge and practical tools needed to leverage Generative AI effectively for enhanced teaching and learning experiences.

In-house HSUHK ChatGPT Service

It is recommended that HSUHK members utilize the in-house HSUHK ChatGPT service for their learning needs in case they would like to use the generative AI tools. This service is hosted within the university’s infrastructure, providing enhanced security and privacy.

HSUHK ChatGPT
User Guide for HSUHK ChatGPT (by ITSC)
Past Seminars and Workshops
Exploring The Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) In Higher Education: Opportunities, Challenges, And Ethics

In response to the growing interest and concerns regarding Generative AI, the Centre for Teaching and Learning, the School of Business and the Library jointly organized a seminar on May 17, 2023. The seminar aimed to provide a platform for staff to discuss the potential applications, ethical considerations, and pedagogical implications of Generative AI in higher education. 

Event Recording and presentation materials
Empowering Teaching@HSUHK Through GAI: ChatGPT in Game-Based Education

In a resounding success, the seminar, co-organized by the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), Department of Art and Design (AAD), Department of Social Science (SSC) and in collaboration with the Strategic Development Grant (SDG) Project “From Retro to the Metaverse Games: Imagining Asia and Creative Industries from the Past, the Present, to the Future” drew over 40 participants on 7 December 2023. 

The dynamic event brought together educators and learners in a vibrant community, where insightful presentations and engaging discussions delved into the transformative potential of Generative AI (GAI), with a spotlight on ChatGPT, in reshaping the educational landscape. 

Esteemed speakers, including Mr Kelvin Wan (CTL), Dr Pui Sze Cheung (SSC), Dr Christine Choy (AAD), Dr Patrick Mok (AAD), and Dr Joseph Li (SSC), shared their expertise and experiences, sparking a vibrant exchange of ideas among participants. The highlight of the seminar was witnessing the impact of GAI on student projects, from historical narratives to creative ideation, showcasing the incredible potential of GAI and leaving the audience inspired and hopeful for the future of education.

Event Recording and presentation materials
Empowering Teaching@HSUHK Through GAI: Image Generation Strategies

This workshop, “Empowering Teaching Through GAI: Exploring Teaching Materials and Ethical Image Generation Strategies” was held on 28 March 2024 and drew educators and tech enthusiasts alike. Co-hosted by the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), School of Communication (SCOM), and the University Library (LIB) the event delved into the transformative potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in education.

Attendees explored GAI’s role in MOOCs, ethical image generation using platforms like Adobe Firefly, and copyright considerations. Speakers, including Mr Kelvin Wan (CTL), Dr Sobel Chan (SCOM), and Mr Frankie Tsang (LIB), shed light on integrating GAI responsibly into teaching methodologies. The hands-on session allowed participants to create AI-generated images, highlighting both the creative potential and ethical implications.

The workshop fostered dynamic exchanges, emphasizing the importance of responsible AI use in education. This event marked a significant step forward in embracing technology for enhanced teaching and learning experiences, paving the way for future innovations in education at HSUHK.

Event Recording and Presentation materials
Address Academic Integrity

To reinforce the significance of original work, it is recommended to provide practical examples of appropriate attribution and citation when utilizing Generative AI tools. More information about academic integrity, citing Generative AI tools, and avoiding plagiarism can be found on the CTL and Library websites.

Other Resources

Integrating generative AI in teaching and learning at the university level can offer exciting opportunities for both educators and students. Here is some pedagogical sharing from different universities’ faculties to incorporate generative AI in teaching and learning:

  1. Pedagogic strategies for adapting to generative AI chatbots. Standford Teaching Commons.
  2. Integrating Generative AI in Teaching and Learning. Center for Engaged Pedagogy, Barnard College.
  3. Incorporating Generative AI in Teaching and Learning: Faculty Examples Across Disciplines. Centre for Teaching and Learning, Columbia University.
  4. ChatGPT and Other Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom. Digital Futures Institute, Teachers College.
  5. Considerations for AI Tools in the Classroom. Columbia University Center for Teaching and Learning.
  6. Thinking About Assessment in the Time of Generative Artificial Intelligence. Digital Futures Institute, Teachers College
  7. Open AI Educator FAQ. Open AI.

Continuous Evaluation and Improvement

We encourage HSUHK members to assess the effectiveness of AI-generated content and tools, seeking feedback from teachers, students, and other members. This iterative process ensures that AI remains a valuable asset in education, evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of our learning community.