TMU’s Leadership Task Force on Generative AI releases report

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have been rapidly evolving since the public release of ChatGPT in 2022. Its speed of adoption is one of the fastest in consumer technology history, with ChatGPT reaching 100 million users in the first two months.

This shift has brought both opportunities and challenges to higher education. It impacts how students learn, and the way institutions teach, do research and operate.

Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has been proactive in preparing for the effects of AI. The Leadership Task Force on Generative AI has developed recommendations on how to adapt and support the responsible use of AI technologies in a new report.

“This report is part of our larger commitment to prepare our students and community to  navigate a rapidly changing world, while fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and lifelong learning,” says Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, provost and vice-president, academic. “Our recommendations on Generative AI use at TMU ensures inclusivity and human flourishing remain at the forefront of everything we do.”

What you’ll find in the report

Rather than establishing a standalone policy, the task force reviewed existing TMU policies to identify gaps, opportunities, and solutions to strengthen them to include AI adaptation. 

Since AI adaptation impacts several areas, the recommendations cover five themes:

• Policy, guidelines and governance
• Technological infrastructure
• Training and professional development
• Learning, teaching and student success
• Scholarly, research and creative activity 

The report also shares training resources that help build AI skills and competencies.

A commitment to responsible use and human potential 

The report’s outlined approach respects academic freedom and aims to mitigate potential risks. It includes several principles to guide adaptation, including a commitment to: 

• equitable access and inclusion; 
• ethical and responsible use; and 
• compliance with data privacy and security.

“While this report outlines how to adapt to AI technologies and their effects on our operations, human judgement and intelligence must remain at the centre of our work,” says Sean Kheraj, vice-provost, academic and co-chair of the Leadership Task Force on Generative AI. “TMU is committed to the development of human potential, and we prioritize uses of AI that amplify human intellect and agency over those that merely optimize for transactional efficiency.”

Recognizing opportunities and understanding the risks of AI

While AI technology offers several opportunities and benefits, it also has the potential to undermine learning, compromise academic and research integrity, and disrupt operations. 

As TMU applies these technologies, it will also assess and critique AI and its effects on society. 

The university is committed to social responsibility and living harmoniously within the limits of natural resources so that all living systems can flourish for future generations.

To view the report or download a PDF version, visit the Artificial Intelligence at TMU website.