Wilfrid Laurier University's Generative Artificial Intelligence Committee

Sept. 25, 2023

Wilfrid Laurier University has formed a Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) Committee, which will play a pivotal role in guiding the institution’s response to the transformative potential of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The committee will address the rapidly changing landscape of generative AI and its implications for higher education, with a strong focus on its potential benefits and challenges for our university.

The Gen AI committee will explore the potential of generative AI and its applications across various domains. With the help of subcommittees, this committee will make policy recommendations and develop university-wide guidelines for the use of generative AI in teaching, research, service and operational activities at Laurier and these guidelines will set a framework for ethical and effective AI integration.

“The development of Gen AI guidelines and policies are critical for us as an institution. They will prepare our community for all the challenges and opportunities of the future,” says Heidi Northwood, provost and vice-president: academic and chair of the committee.

The committee brings together a diverse group of faculty, staff and students who bring various expertise and perspectives to how the technology will impact the university.

Already, Laurier has undertaken several initiatives over the past months to address the challenges and opportunities of Gen AI technologies, and the university is in the midst of other initiatives such as:  

• Gen AI Sessions: These sessions provide faculty members with insights into the potential applications of generative AI in teaching and research.
• Gen AI Teaching Resources: Curated resources and support for educators to incorporate generative AI technologies into their curriculum.

Senior leaders at the university are also participating in education sessions and facilitated discussions of key concerns with the technology.

The Gen AI committee’s first meeting is set for Sept. 28 to form working groups and establish objectives for the scope of its work.

“I am looking forward to working with colleagues to understand the implications of this technology,” says Northwood. “Across the university, we need to be engaging in open conversations about academic integrity, teaching, learning, research and privacy.”