Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field that changes the way we live, work and learn. The impact of AI is being felt across a wide range of industries, and it is becoming increasingly important for educators and students to have a basic understanding of these tools. It is also important to stay informed about the latest developments in AI and how they can be applied to research and teaching. With the wide range of AI tools available, there are many opportunities to explore and create new applications in this exciting field.
What is AI?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that deals with the creation of machines that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. AI can analyze and process vast amounts of data, and automate tasks that were previously performed by humans.
Who is it For?
AI is for everyone! Check out AI Communities.
What Can I Do With AI?
With the currently available tools, you can use AI to create digital artwork, write text, edit and improve audio, find topic-based articles for research, and more.
AI Tools
From data analysis to Natural Language Processing (NLP), there is a wide range of AI tools that can help automate tasks, uncover new insights, and make more informed decisions. Some of the most innovative and exciting AI tools available today include ChatGPT, Chat BA, Elicit.org, and ExplainPaper. There is also a site that helps you find the right AI tool for you.
- ChatGPT is an advanced conversational AI tool developed by OpenAI. This tool can generate natural language responses to text inputs, making it possible to create virtual assistants, chatbots, and other conversational interfaces. To learn more about ChatGPT, visit ChatGPT Edu.
Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered tool that assists users in various tasks, making work more efficient and productive. Need more info? Visit CSUN's Microsoft Copilot page.
Logging In & Access
Free Version
- Go to the MS Copilot page.
- Select the Sign-in button at the top right. Select work account or personal account. In this example we chose Work.
- Enter your CSUN email address and select Next.
- You'll be redirected to the CSUN login page. Enter your CSUN credentials and select Login. Authorize with Duo.
- After this, you will be in the interface and can enter a prompt to begin.
Paid Version (Copilot for Office 365)
To access the paid version of Copilot for Office 365, a license request must be made. There is a cost of $30 per license and a 2.75% overhead fee. Please review the process below:
- The service requestor initiates a license request. Go to TopDesk and select the License Request Form button to the right. Complete the form and submit. Number of licenses and user info will be required.
- IT requests a quote from the vendor.
- IT updates the requestor with their quote and requests a chargeback.
- Requesting Department has to enter a chargeback to IT for the quote amount PLUS a 2.75% overhead fee.
- Once we have received the chargeback, IT will submit an order to the vendor.
- Licenses should be available within a week after we give the order to the vendor.
- Once received, IT or tech support for your area, will install the license/s to the requested group account/s.
Please note, these orders will be completed monthly. Requests submitted with paid chargebacks by the 15th of each month will be ordered.
- Google Gemini is an AI-powered assistant designed to live within your Google Workspace tools and help you be more productive and creative. It can summarize information, draft content, and even generate new ideas, all while keeping your data secure.
- Chat BA: An AI-powered virtual assistant that can be used to make slide decks.
- Elicit.org: This paid tool can be used for evaluating academic references such as authors, titles, abstracts, and citation data. Elicit currently works best for answering questions with empirical research (e.g. randomized controlled trials). These tend to be questions in biomedicine, social science, and economics. Questions like "What are the effects of ____ on ____?" tend to work best.
- ExplainPaper: This platform utilizes machine learning to condense scientific papers into a simplified and comprehensible format. It employs Natural Language Processing techniques to extract the insights and advancements outlined in the paper.
- Futuretools.io: This site collects and organizes many of the AI tools available. You can search by categories for different AI tasks.
CSU GenAI Systemwide Generative AI Resources
The Systemwide Generative AI Resources website by the California State University (CSU) provides valuable information and resources related to generative AI. Here are some key features:
- AI in July Webinars: CSU hosts webinars on generative AI, covering various topics and applications.
- Online Courses: Members of the CSU community can self-enroll in online courses related to generative AI. One such course is the Academic Applications of AI (AAAI) Faculty Micro-Credential, designed by SDSU to enhance understanding of generative AI1.
- Recent Publications: The website features publications related to generative AI.
AI and Privacy
As with any online service, there are privacy concerns to consider when signing up for any AI tool. It's important to carefully review the terms of service and privacy policy of any AI tool you are considering using to ensure that you are comfortable with the data collection and usage practices.
AI and Accessibility
Discover the intersection of AI and accessibility! Learn how AI tools can serve as assistive technology, enhancing learning experiences for students with disabilities, while also recognizing the importance of ensuring AI’s own accessibility. Explore how AI can facilitate universal design, and understand the considerations when utilizing AI in your courses.