Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Find answers to common questions about artificial intelligence at USask and links to current guidance and support.

These questions reflect common topics and may evolve as guidance, tools, and university resources continue to develop.

Not necessarily. Acceptable use depends on course and assignment requirements. Learn more about academic misconduct.

Yes. Instructors can require students to use USask-approved generative AI tools in their courses. If you have questions about course expectations, review the syllabus and speak with your instructor.

The best AI tool depends on the task you are trying to accomplish. Different tools may offer different capabilities, privacy protections, integrations, and use cases. Consider what you are trying to do, the type of information involved, and any privacy or institutional requirements before choosing a tool. Learn more about available tools on PAWS (NSID login required).

Enterprise AI tools licensed and supported by the university offer enhanced privacy and security protections compared to publicly available free versions. These include contractual data protections, institutional account licensing, and integration with university systems. Features vary by tool and subscription type.

Before using an AI tool, it can help to understand how AI works, what it can and cannot do, how to evaluate its outputs, and when it may or may not be appropriate. Start with AI basics.

The answer depends on the information, the AI tool, and the type of license being used. Review the Data Handling Guidelines for AI before entering university or third-party information into an artificial intelligence tool.

Under the university's institutional agreements, prompts and files submitted through university-provided AI services are not used to train the vendors' AI models. If you use AI tools outside USask-provided services, data handling and training practices vary by provider.

USask-provided AI tools include additional privacy, security, and contractual protections. Under the university’s institutional agreements, prompts and files submitted through these services are not used to train the vendors’ AI models. Building AI literacy is also part of managing risk because it helps people understand AI’s capabilities and limitations, evaluate its outputs, and make informed decisions about whether, when, and how to use it.

Some AI tools are available to current students, faculty, and staff at no cost through university agreements. Learn more about available tools and pricing on PAWS (NSID login required).