The use of artificial intelligence (AI) as a student at UiA
On this page, you will find information on how to use AI tools responsibly and thoughtfully. You will find advice on when AI can support your learning process, what you need to bear in mind when using AI-generated content, and the guidelines that apply to written assignments and exams.
Guidelines for the use of AI in exams and written submissions
The aim is not for AI to replace your own learning, reflection or professional judgement, but for it to serve as a tool that enhances your work.
Important points to bear in mind when using AI
Privacy and the GDPR
- AI tools are trained on large volumes of data that may contain personal data sourced from the internet and from users
- There is uncertainty as to whether the collection and use of such data complies with the GDPR, particularly in relation to web scraping and the processing of sensitive personal data
- Information relating to health, religion, political opinions, ethnicity and sexual orientation is subject to special protection and may give rise to privacy challenges
- Users should avoid sharing personal data and other sensitive information on AI services, and be aware of the privacy risks
The data set
- Information that is entered or uploaded may be stored, used for the further development of the service and, in some cases, shared with third parties
- AI tools are trained on large amounts of data that may contain personal data obtained from the internet and from users
- There is considerable uncertainty regarding the data used to train various AI models
Ethical challenges
Many AI models are trained on large amounts of data collected from the internet and digital services, often without users having a full understanding of how the information is used (data scraping). This raises challenges relating to privacy, data control and influence through personalised content.
The development of AI also relies on extensive human labour. Some of this work is carried out by people who label and filter content to train algorithms, often under demanding working conditions (AI tagging).
The operation of AI also requires large amounts of energy, data centres and hardware. The production of equipment also involves the use of natural resources and extensive transport, which leaves a significant environmental footprint.
At the same time, technology companies are competing to develop ever-better AI solutions. This can lead to commercial objectives receiving greater attention than ethical considerations.
Privacy and the use of artificial intelligence
Why is data protection important?
When you, as a student, use artificial intelligence (AI), it is important to be aware of data protection and how personal data is processed. Data protection encompasses the right to privacy and control over one’s own data, and is regulated by the Personal Data Act and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
When using AI tools, the information you enter may be stored, analysed and, in some cases, used to further develop the services. This entails a risk that personal data may be misappropriated or processed in breach of the regulations.
What is personal data?
Personal data is any information that can be linked to an individual. For example:
- Name, national identity number and contact details
- Student details, marks and assessments
- Images, audio and video recordings of individuals
- IP addresses and other digital traces
- Information about health, ethnicity, religion or political views (special categories / sensitive personal data)
Even if individual pieces of information do not identify anyone, they may do so when combined. Such indirect information is also personal data.
GDPR and your responsibilities as a student
Although the university has overall responsibility for data protection, as a student you also have an individual responsibility for how you handle personal data.
The following principles are particularly important:
- Data minimisation – do not share more personal data than is necessary.
- Purpose limitation – data must only be used for a clearly defined purpose.
- Confidentiality – protect confidential and sensitive information. UiA has not, as of today, approved any AI models for such data.
- Lawful basis for processing – the use of personal data requires a legal basis.
Important advice on the use of AI
- We recommend that you use AI models approved by the university.
- Do not enter sensitive personal data into AI models.
- Avoid sharing information about others with AI models.
- Use anonymisation.
- Be mindful of storage and further use.
Risks associated with the use of external AI services
Many AI tools are provided by commercial operators outside Norway and the EU/EEA. This may involve the transfer of personal data to third countries, a lack of control over storage, and a risk of further use of the data.
Consequences of misuse
Breaches of data protection regulations can lead to invasions of privacy and a loss of trust.
Conclusion
As a student, you must exercise due care when using AI, avoid sharing personal data, and comply with applicable rules and guidelines.
Contact
If you have any questions about data protection or the use of AI, please contact hjelp@uia.no
Cheating
UiA permits the use of AI tools in examination answers and written assignments, unless the course has its own rules. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the applicable guidelines. Breaches of these guidelines may be regarded as cheating.
AI tools may, for example, be used to assist with drafting an outline or a literature review, for proofreading, or as a sounding board in assignments where all aids are permitted. This applies unless specific guidelines have been provided for the course, the examination or the assignment in question. All use of AI must be assessed critically, and you are personally responsible for the content of your answer.
In your submission, you must state which AI tools have been used and for what purposes. The extent of this account depends on the type of assignment. You should also avoid sharing sensitive personal data and, where possible, use approved AI tools.