Generative AI has the potential to be used in ways that violate the UNC Honor Code, such as using generated text, images, or audio without acknowledgement or plagiarizing work by using GenAI tools.
Remember to always check with your instructors and review the course syllabus for their policy on using Generative AI. Many instructors have specific guidance on when and how to use GenAI in their course, and guidelines for how to cite or acknowledge its use.
The rapid expansion of GenAI has created increased demand for the natural resources that power its processes, such as electricity and water.
Further reading: “A Computer Scientist Breaks Down Generative AI’s Hefty Carbon Footprint” Scientific American, May 2023
Many researchers who study the spread of misinformation (incorrect or false info) and disinformation (deliberately misleading information) are concerned about GenAI’s ability to easily and quickly spread false content.
Further reading: “An A.I. Researcher Takes On Election Deepfakes.” New York Times, April 2024
Because Generative AI tools have advanced so rapidly, existing copyright law has struggled to adapt. The rightful copyright owner of GenAI outputs is still unclear, and this area of law will continue to change as new ownership claims are made.
Further reading: “Boom in A.I. Prompts a Test of Copyright Law,” New York Times, December 2023
Some experts are concerned because Generative AI companies are not clear about how users’ data are protected. Other concerns include the lack of consent from creators whose work was used to train AI tools.
Further reading: “Generative AI's privacy problem,” AXIOS, March 2024.
Generative AI holds the possibility of creating content that is more accessible to everyone, including people who use assistive technology. However, it’s also important to ensure that GenAI-created content and tools are accessible and pass digital accessibility checks.
Further reading: “‘Without these tools, I’d be lost’: how generative AI aids in accessibility”Nature, April 2024