What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, typically through algorithms and computational models, enabling tasks such as problem-solving, learning, and decision-making.

  • Generative AI: A category of AI algorithms that draws on patterns learned from a dataset to generate new content, such as text, images, or music.
  • Large Language Models (LLMs): A specific type of generative AI designed to understand and generate human-like text across multiple languages, with applications ranging from natural language processing to translation and content generation.

Generative AI in a Nutshell - How to Survive and Thrive in the Age of AI [17:56 mins.]
Learn what AI is, what it does, and how you can use it effectively. Learn how to write a good prompt, evaluate the AI output, and craft follow-up prompts to get what you need.

Why Use AI?

AI imgeUse AI as much as it helps (and as allowed by your professor), but ultimately you are responsible for every choice and everything you write. Always follow your professor's directives when using AI

Research Assistance: AI tools can assist students in gathering, processing, and synthesizing complex datasets. These tools help sift through large volumes of information to identify trends, ultimately streamlining the research and writing process.

Personalized Learning & Study Aid: AI can act as a personalized tutor, providing additional examples and explanations for better understanding. For advanced learners, AI can present increasingly complex concepts and ideas to engage and motivate students. Student learning can be supported with real-time AI conversation and feedback.

Language Learning: AI supports language equity by assisting students for whom English is a second language, helping them bridge communication gaps and refine their academic writing.

TIP: Check out the Frameworks & Career Readiness tab to learn how these skills translate to your future career!

Frameworks & Career Readiness

AI Literacy: Your Professional Edge

Bridge the gap between the classroom and career field by mastering the AI frameworks that top employers are using today.

How the Library Supports Your Growth

To ensure you are AI-literate and prepared for an AI-driven workforce, the library integrates world class industry standards into our LIBBI sessions& and research consultations

"Workers can start by identifying routine tasks in their current work, such as drafting emails, summarizing reports, or organizing data, and experimenting with an AI tool to complete those tasks. This helps workers compare the AI output with how the worker would normally approach their work, noticing where AI saves time and where human oversight and judgment are especially important. As confidence grows, workers can explore AI tools relevant to their specific industry, look at job postings to see how employers are describing AI-related expectations, and seek out training opportunities that build on foundational AI literacy toward role-specific proficiency. These steps position workers to remain competitive in an evolving job market and take on expanded responsibilities as AI becomes integrated into their field."; opens new window—The Department of Labor’s Artificial Intelligence Literacy Framework, Attachment 1, p. I-2)

AI & the Library

This LibGuide provides foundational AI information, curated AI tool lists, and specific usage tips to enhance your AI literacy. Beyond this guide, the library offers personalized instruction and guidance on navigating the AI landscape and using AI for research.

For Students

For Faculty

  • Instructional Workshops: Request a customized AI LIBBI workshop for your class by contacting you Library Liaisons.

ORU Policy, Information Technology & AI

When using AI, it is important to always follow your professor's guidelines on permitted AI assistance and the opens new windowUniversity AI Policy.

ORU Information Technology Guidance
For technical support, security standards, and using AI, check out the following AI guidance web pages:

ORU IT AIInnovation at ORU