Explore GenAI benefits, risks, and ethics

Things to consider when using AI

 

Can you trust that the information you receive from these AI-based tools is correct? Not without double checking. Many chatbots such as ChatGPT were designed to produce content that seems realistic, so they will produce inaccurate content with the same level of confidence as accurate content and it's up to you to determine which is which. You'll need to employ a variety of strategies to double check information before assuming it is correct. You'll learn more about how to do this in the following section.
Where does the content come from? Because machine learning takes huge inputs of data sets, many models use information from the internet in their training. Artists and authors have criticized AI-based tools for using their work without compensation or credit. If an AI-based image generator can produce work in the style of a certain artist, should that be seen as stealing, or paying homage?
It may be tempting to think of an output from an AI-based tool as neutral, but that is not the case. Machine learning models are programmed by humans (who can be biased) and trained on data pulled from the Internet (which contains bias). As a result, GenAI output can replicate or even exacerbate biases we see in the world around us. Unfortunately, however, AI-based tools are increasingly being used in real-world decision making, such as in reviewing job applications or in approving healthcare claims. Not only can AI reproduce real-world bias in a generated output, but it can contribute to bias in our real world when it is used without critical analysis or ethical consideration.
It is safe to assume that -- in some way or another -- any information you put into a AI-based tool is being used to further train the machine learning model. If you choose to use these tools, you'll want to make sure you're never putting personal or secure information about you or anyone else in your chats. You should also read through any user agreements if you sign up to use a particular service and make your own decision if you are comfortable agreeing to the terms. If one of your class projects requires the use of a particular technology that you do not wish to create an account for, you can ask your instructor for an alternative way to complete the assignment. 
Each of your professors may set their own guidelines and policies regarding AI use in their classroom. Be sure to talk with your professors to better understand the appropriate use of AI throughout your class. When in doubt, talk it out!
Using generative AI has several environmental impacts, primarily due to the high energy consumption and carbon footprint associated with training and running AI models. Here are the key environmental concerns:
  • High Energy Consumption: A huge amount of computing power is needed to create and train generative AI models and to generate its outputs. Running AI models such as ChatGPT for real-time applications consume an estimated five times as much energy as a conventional web search. 
  • Carbon Footprint: AI data centers rely on electricity, which may come from fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. These energy demands further impact an environment already strained by climate change.
  • Water Usage: The data centers that house generative AI servers consume an enormous amount of energy and resources. Much of this resource consumption consists of the water needed to provide cooling for computer servers. AI models can contribute to regional water stress, especially in areas with limited water resources.

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