Artificial intelligence (AI) is also referred to as machine learning (ML) although they are different. Similarly, Large Language Models (LLMs) are often referred to as AI and fit under the umbrella of AI with ML but neither demonstrates actual intelligence.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) "is the science and engineering of making intelligent machines, especially intelligent computer programs. It is related to the similar task of using computers to understand human intelligence, but AI does not have to confine itself to methods that are biologically observable [emphasis added]." (McCarthy, n.d.)

Intelligence of created systems and algorithms is typically compared to human intelligence. Sometimes LLMs and ML products can appear to have human intelligence, but it is simply the product of coding, not actual intelligence.

ML (Machine Learning) is "algorithms that give computers the ability to learn from data, and then make predictions and decisions". Examples include automatically detecting spam emails, suggesting videos to watch after finishing one, etc. (CrashCourse, 2017) 

LLMs (Large Language Models) "can generate natural language texts from large amounts of data. Large language models use deep neural networks, such as transformers, to learn from billions or trillions of words, and to produce texts on any topic or domain. Large language models can also perform various natural language tasks, such as classification, summarization, translation, generation, and dialogue." (Maeda & Chaki, 2023)

GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) "models give applications the ability to create human-like text and content (images, music, and more), and answer questions in a conversational manner." (What Is GPT AI?, n.d.)

Large Language Models (LLMs)

While some LLMs are more recognizable than others, there are quite a few options available. Here is an incomplete list of LLMs you may want to investigate. (Staines, 2023)

ChatGPT

Uses and Limitations of LLMs

UW Medicine Office of Research and Graduate Education:

• OpenAI has a call for proposal on their website right now. UW Principal Investigators (PIs) should not apply for these grants.
• OpenAI will claim possession and rights of dissemination for all material in the proposal and all background IP.  
• These terms are not acceptable to UW and many other universities.

Please direct any questions regarding the OpenAI call for proposals to rgeadmin@uw.edu. 
 

Guidance for AI Development and Use

Journal and News Articles on Bias in AI and LLMs

Are LLMs Free?

Using AI in the Classroom

Use Caution

Academic Standards

From Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

Alternative Text

It's time to rethink "plagiarism" and "cheating"

As you read through the ordered list, consider these questions:

• Which of these would you consider "cheating"? 
• Which of these is relevant to our students' future? 
• Which of these would you use in your work as an adult? 

Organized on a spectrum from Bot-created (1 on the list below) to Student-created (6 on the list below):

1. Student plugged prompt into AI, copied response and submitted it to teacher. 
2. AI created a response. Student read, edited, adjusted, and submitted. 
3. Student created multiple AI responses, used the best parts, edited, and submitted. 
4. Student wrote main ideas. AI generated a draft and offered feedback to improve. 
5. Student consulted internet/AI for ideas, then wrote and submitted. 
6. Student wrote all assignment content without consulting AI or the internet. 

Ditch That Textbook. Graphic by Matt Miller (@jmattmiller) DitchThatTextbook.com. 

(Miller, 2022)

Co-Authorship

Many journals have rules about whether AI and LLMs can be considered a co-author. Investigate the Author Guidelines for any journal in which you are considering publishing before using a LLM to revise or support your work.

Works Cited

Consensus on how or whether to cite AI and LLMs is in progress. Look to your instructor and/or syllabus for specific instructions on whether you may use AI and/or LLMs in your coursework. 

Because LLMs are generating sentences based on others' work, err on the side of caution by citing the LLM used.

Copyright

Learn the basics with this 12-minute instructional video by CrashCourse produced in collaboration with PBS Digital Studios:

UW Resources

Library Research Guides

Think Pieces