AI@CSI
What is AI?
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include learning from data, recognizing patterns, understanding language, making decisions, and solving problems. AI systems use algorithms and models to analyze information, adapt to new inputs, and improve their performance over time, enabling them to automate processes and support smarter, faster outcomes.
- Generative AI: A type of artificial intelligence that can create new content based on patterns it has learned from existing data. It can generate text, images, audio, video, code, and other media that resemble human-created content. Instead of only analyzing or classifying information, generative AI produces original outputs in response to prompts, making it useful for tasks like writing, design, brainstorming, and simulation.
- Agentic AI: refers to artificial intelligence systems that can act autonomously to achieve goals on a user’s behalf. Unlike traditional AI tools that only respond to direct prompts, agentic AI can plan, make decisions, take actions, and adapt based on feedback and changing conditions. In short, agentic AI goes beyond content generation to taking action and driving outcomes.
- AI Literacy: The knowledge, skills, and mindset people need in order to understand, use, evaluate, and interact with artificial intelligence systems safely, effectively, and ethically. The ability to understand what AI is, how it works at a fundamental level, how to use AI tools appropriately, how to critically evaluate their outputs, and how AI affects individuals and society.
For more information visit the Library AI website
Examples of Generative AI Tools
Text
- ChatGPT – generates text, answers questions, and helps with writing
- Google Gemini – assists with writing, research, and problem-solving
- Jasper – creates marketing and business content
Image
- DALL·E – creates images from text descriptions
- Midjourney – generates artistic and realistic images
- Adobe Firefly – produces images and design elements
Audio and Music
- ElevenLabs – generates realistic AI voices
- Soundraw – creates original music
- AIVA – composes music using AI
Video
- Runway – generates and edits videos with AI
- Synthesia – creates videos with AI avatars
- Pictory – turns text into videos
Code
- GitHub Copilot – assists with writing and completing code
- CodeWhisperer – provides AI-powered coding suggestions
AI Use Policy - Traffic Light Model
The red light, green light strategy for AI usage in education involves a traffic-light approach where educators are guided on when and where AI can be used. This strategy aims to balance the potential benefits of AI with the need for academic integrity and ethical considerations.
For more information and guidance regarding the red light, green light strategy, please see the AI Use Policy
Resources
- 5 Small Steps for AI Skeptics
- Developing an Approach - Center for the Advancement of Teaching
- Make AI Part of the Assignment
- Checklist: Am I ready to use genAI? | Students
- Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence
- Reasonable Doubt: Surprisingly Simple Ways to Encourage Disillusionment with Generative AI | The Institute for Learning and Teaching | Colorado State University
- Bronx Community College AI
- CUNY AI Academic Hub
- CUNY Series on Generative AI
- CUNY AI - One
- CUNY's Academic Integrity Policy