Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Policy for Kuwait University

With reference to University President Decision No. (2186), dated 6/3/1446 AH, corresponding to 9/9/2024, regarding the Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Policy of Kuwait University.

The University Council approved the Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Policy at its meeting No. (2024/5) dated 26/11/2024, and it was decided that the policy shall take effect as of the date of approval.

Kuwait University, recognizing the importance of using the latest technology in teaching and scientific research, encourages the optimal use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). To prevent any misuse of these tools, this policy aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence.

Our policy ensures that we use GenAI responsibly, respecting everyone's rights and following ethical and scientific standards. Many types of GenAI models have been developed recently. These tools serve different tasks, such as text generation, image generation, audio and video generation, and others.

This policy covers key areas: General GenAI concerns, use of GenAI by students, use of GenAI by faculty, and use of GenAI by employees.

1. General Concerns About GenAI

1.1 Potential for Errors (AI Hallucinations)

One major concern with AI is its dependence on data. Just like any student learning from flawed notes, AI trained on inaccurate, biased, or insufficient data can produce erroneous results. Therefore, it is essential to critically evaluate GenAI results, and all AI outputs should be reviewed and confirmed.

1.2 Copyright Infringement

Another potential problem lies in AI's content creation capabilities. GenAI can generate text, music, and even art based on the data it has been trained on. While this opens exciting possibilities, it also raises concerns about copyright and intellectual property. If GenAI outputs contain elements or styles copied directly from existing works, it could infringe on the rights of the original creators. To avoid legal pitfalls, it is essential to use AI tools responsibly and be mindful of the source material they utilize.

1.3 Privacy Risks

GenAI does introduce concerns regarding privacy in the digital age. Many GenAI systems, especially those offering personalized services, require access to vast amounts of user data. This raises the risk of sensitive information being exposed if not adequately protected. Therefore, it is crucial to read the privacy policies of any GenAI system before interacting with it and ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data.

2. Use of GenAI by Students

Students should adhere to instructions from faculty about GenAI.

If students use GenAI without the explicit permission of faculty, it will be considered the same as getting assistance from someone else, and thus, is considered cheating/plagiarism.

Please contact your instructor if you are unsure before using GenAI. Keep in mind that there are tools that help detect whether an assignment was done using GenAI.

When there is permission from faculty to use GenAI, faculty may require students to provide the following information:

• GenAI tools used (for example: ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, etc.).

• Part of the assignment that was generated or assisted by GenAI.

• Prompt used for each part.

If your instructor allows you to use GenAI, here is a sample list of acceptable and unacceptable uses:

2.1 Acceptable Use

• Use GenAI for researching information.

• Use GenAI for help with grammar, spelling, clarity, and readability.

• Summarizing information.

• Getting ideas for research projects and brainstorming.

• Creating images related to your assignments.

• Use GenAI to help you understand concepts.

• Use GenAI to help tweak or strengthen your ideas.

2.2 Unacceptable Use

• Copying GenAI text and using it as your own work, even if paraphrased.

• Solving problems or questions using GenAI.

• Using GenAI to generate solutions for programming assignments, exams, or projects.

3. Use of GenAI by Faculty

3.1 Teaching

Faculty are free to set their own policies regarding GenAI in the classroom. Faculty should include a section in their syllabus that is concerned with the use of AI.

When allowing students to use GenAI, a faculty member may ask for the following information:

• AI tools used (for example: ChatGPT, Bard, Copilot, etc.).

• Part of the assignment that was generated by AI.

• Prompt used for each part.

Faculty are free to use GenAI in their classes. Also, faculty can use GenAI to create homework, ideas, teaching concepts, examples, and exams. When it comes to grading projects, homework, or exams, faculty should always verify the results, since GenAI might not be accurate or fair.

3.2 For Research

Faculty have the right to use GenAI to support their research. There are many AI tools available for research, and faculty may use these tools to support their research.

Faculty should be careful in how they use GenAI in research, as they should keep in mind that many journals have AI detection features, which might invalidate their research efforts.

Here is a list of guidelines related to using GenAI in research:

• GenAI tools can be used to assist in research. However, they are assistive tools and do not replace human intellectual and mental effort.

• It is important not to over-rely on the information provided by GenAI without reviewing it.

• It is important to indicate the use of GenAI tools when used in research.

• GenAI tools cannot be relied on as a source or reference.

• GenAI tools cannot be relied on when it comes to providing references or sources without verification.

• Researchers should not directly copy from GenAI, but it is possible to benefit from the ideas and develop them.

• It is necessary to encourage the use of GenAI tools in a manner that respects ethical rules and scientific honesty.

4. Use of GenAI by Employees

Employees have the right to use GenAI to support their work. However, employees should consider the following:

• GenAI tools can generate incorrect information.

• GenAI tools can be biased.

• Employees should not upload sensitive data to GenAI tools, as it might be disclosed or made available to others.

As a result, the responsibility for utilizing GenAI tools falls directly on the employees. We continuously stress the importance of validating and verifying the results produced.