Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace, reshaping how we:

  • Learn
  • Work
  • Connect 

In recognition of the role that AI will continue to play in learning and after graduation, Generative AI (GenAI) tools have been made available for Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) students and staff. To guide the use of these tools in student learning, the WRDSB has created GenAI Student Guidelines.

What is AI and Generative AI? 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an advanced computer technology that can do tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include:

  • Understanding spoken language
  • Learning from experiences
  • Solving complex problems 

AI is already prevalent in many digital tools we use daily and will continue to grow, improve, and be relied upon. These include:

  • Mapping
  • Predictive text
  • Translators
  • Advertising
  • Search engines

Three Types of Artificial Intelligence

Reactive

Examples of reactive AI include digital assistants.

Generative

Examples of GenAI include GeminiChat and NotebookLM. 

Predictive

Examples of predictive AI include recommended movies or TV shows on a streaming service. 

What Is GenAI

GenAI has the ability to create new content by using online digital information and responding to user input. This typically occurs through written prompts and interactive dialogue. GenAI is distinct from search engines and requires a different approach for effective outcomes.

Large Language Models (LLMs)

GenAI tools are trained on Large Language Models (LLMs). The LLMs sift through massive amounts of data on the internet. This data is then analyzed to identify complex patterns. This process mimics how humans learn from experience. 

By analyzing patterns in information, LLMs use algorithms (mathematical models) to determine things like what word, image, video, or sound would come next. It then produces the content in response to the prompts entered by the user. 

These models then use the data collected to generate content when provided with a prompt. The performance of GenAI tools can be improved when users provide feedback or adjust their prompts to refine the responses. This is how GenAI mimics human responses.

GenAI may exist as a standalone application or be integrated into other tools. To benefit from GenAI in education, staff and students should have a strong understanding of how these models function. 

What AI Does Well

  • Synthesizes information
  • Generates examples
  • Generates fast responses
  • Generates new ideas
  • Language translation
  • Helps with conceptual understanding

What AI Does Poorly

  • Empathy and emotional intelligence
  • Recognizing bias
  • Contextual understanding
  • Verifying facts
  • Authentic/realistic voice
  • Ethical thinking
  • True originality