What is generative AI?

AI stands for artificial intelligence. Generative AI takes the information it is trained on and uses predictive patterns to produce new content. While it is able to replicate human language, it is not capable of original thinking

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is currently the most popular generative AI program. The "GPT" in ChatGPT stands for generative pretrained transformer. Based on natural language techniques, it takes a prompt from a user and provides a response in language that mimics human communication patterns. ChatGPT gathers information from across the internet to produce its answers. ChatGPT was released in November 2022 and quickly became the world's fastest growing consumer application. Currently, ChatGPT 3.5 is free, while version 4.0 is available for a fee. 

Are there other generative AI programs? 

Yes, other generative AI programs have been released. These include Hix, Google Gemini, and the recently revised Microsoft Copilot.

Generative AI like ChatGPT can provide responses to any number of prompts. Here are some examples of what it can do: 

• Brainstorm ideas
• Create exercise program based on given criteria
• Write an essay
• Generate bibliographies
• Translate a text
• Write and debug computer code
• Create a resume 

While programs like ChatGPT can be a powerful tool, please keep in mind that they have notable limitations and presents significant ethical concerns: 

• Bias - a program like ChatGPT draws upon the internet for its answers, and it can sometimes reflect the same prejudices and inaccuracies online. Entering "What are some examples of ChatGPT bias?" into ChatGPT produces a list of possible biases - gender biases, racial and ethnic bias, cultural bias, political bias, religious bias, social bias, sensitivity to sensitive topics, and confirmation bias. 
• Inaccurate information - ChatGPT is not always accurate in the responses it provides. For examples, if you ask for sources to be included in its answers, it will sometimes make up citations for resources that do not exist. Other times, depending on the prompt, it may give misinformation on a topic. 
• Outdated information - currently, ChatGPT only has access to information until September 2021 (as of October 2023). Thus it does not have access to recent research and events in formulating its responses. 
• Privacy - many generative AI programs collect and store a user's responses, as well as track usage on other sites through cookies. These privacy concerns are important considerations before using something like ChatGPT and when deciding what information to enter into the chat. 

As you think about AI programs and your studies at Trinity, here are a few things to keep in mind: 

• Using ChatGPT or similar programs to write your papers for you is plagiarism, as you are taking credit for work you did not do
• If you use a generative AI tool in writing or editing your paper, you need to cite it. Here are some resources to help you: 
  •  Chicago/Turabian Style
  • APA Style
  • MLA Style
• Check your syllabi to see if using ChatGPT is allowed in a course: 
  • Some professors will not allow it at all
  • Others will allow it only for certain uses, such as: 
    • Class assignments using ChatGPT
    • Brainstorming and refining ideas
    • Drafting an outline
  • When in doubt, check with your professor! 

To get more information about AI and ChatGPT: 

• Visit the "Additional Resources" page on this guide to find additional resources.
• Talk to a librarian by:
  • visiting the library 
  • emailing libref@tiu.edu
  • using the chat on the library site
  • calling 847-317-4001

What is ChatGPT? - Sindhu Sundar and Aaron Mok, Business Insider

This article presents an overview of Chat GPT and the ways in which it may develop in the near future. 

How to Use ChatGPT - ZDNET

This post from a tech blog contains step-by-step instructions on how to use ChatGPT. 

ChatGPT - Open AI

This blog from the creators of Chat GPT contains updated information on new developments and releases. 

AI Will Shape Your Soul - Kate Lucky, Christianity Today

This article presents a theological reflection on how faith can be affected by the use of ChatGPT and other AI programs. 

Missio Dei in a Digital Age - Various

This book argues that digitalization is radically changing both the methods and conditions of missions, as well as calling for a re-appraisal of contemporary missiology.