The University of Texas at Austin is committed to fostering innovation while upholding the highest standards of security, privacy, and academic integrity. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into research, teaching, learning, and daily operations, it is essential that these technologies are used responsibly and thoughtfully.
Responsible use of AI tools includes adhering to relevant policies that protect confidential, personal, and proprietary data, as well as following ethical guidelines that prioritize transparency, accountability, and fairness. Community members should be proactive in understanding the implications of AI and strive to use AI in ways that align with the institution's values and mission. By doing so, the University can ensure that AI contributes positively to our environment and the broader society.
Guiding Principles
Safe & Secure
Ensuring the protection of University data from unauthorized access and misuse, while also safeguarding humans from any potential harm or risks.
Protected & Compliant
Adhering to relevant federal and state laws as well as institutional policies regarding the use of sensitive, proprietary, personal, and copyrighted data.
Fair & Transparent
Ensuring fairness, transparency, and alignment with the institution’s mission, while maintaining clarity and openness about AI usage.
Responsible & Accountable
Understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI and taking responsibility for reviewing the output for bias, accuracy, and compliance with policies.
Responsible Use of AI
Policies & Guidelines
Acceptable Use of AI Tools
This policy outlines acceptable practices for using AI tools while safeguarding institutional, personal, and proprietary information. In all cases, use of AI tools must be consistent with the Information Resources Use and Security Policy and, for students, the Acceptable Use Policy.
UT Data Classification Standard
Published University information may be used freely with AI tools. Controlled or confidential University information must be used only with AI tools that are managed by the University and covered by contracts explicitly protecting University data.
Approved AI Tools Decision Matrix
Always check the decision matrix before using any AI tool with University data. The University ensures that AI services meet strict privacy and security standards. AI tools without a University contract and proper data-sharing controls are not approved for use with controlled or confidential information. This includes free, personal, and non-UT-managed AI tools.
Software Approval Process
Any AI tool that uses institutional data must adhere to the established approval processes. For detailed information on software contracts and the application process, please visit the Business Contracts Office website. Inappropriate usage can pose a significant security risk and expose personal, confidential, and proprietary University data to the public.
Academic Resources
Responsible Adoption of AI in Teaching & Learning
Stakeholders from across campus convened to advance the University’s AI-Responsible AI-Forward framework. The purpose of the working group was to respond to the need among students, faculty, and staff for clear, centrally defined guidance on how to adopt AI tools in responsible and ethical ways in teaching and learning contexts.
Generative AI in Teaching & Learning: UT Guides & Recommendations
The Center for Teaching and Learning has developed the following list with links to UT resources, news articles focusing on generative AI tools, and outlines of suggested approaches to adopting these tools.
Good Systems
An interdisciplinary team comprised of faculty and student researchers from more than two dozen schools and units at UT Austin works to better understand what changes new technologies will bring, predict how those changes will unfold, and mitigate the harms or unintended consequences they could cause while still leveraging the benefits AI provides.
Student Standards of Conduct
The University of Texas at Austin holds its students to a high standard grounded in a Code of Conduct and Student Honor Code. Students are expected to abide by all state and federal laws, statutes, and all regulations of the University of Texas System.
Integrating AI at UT
AI That Serves All
AI in Teaching
AI tools can enhance teaching by providing personalized learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and offering real-time feedback. Instructors can use AI to tailor lesson plans and create interactive learning environments. However, it is crucial to ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly, respecting students' privacy and promoting fairness.
AI in Learning
AI can transform learning by offering adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and immersive educational experiences. Students can benefit from AI-driven tools that provide customized study plans, instant feedback, and virtual simulations. These technologies can help students learn at their own pace and deepen their understanding of complex subjects. Responsible use of AI in learning involves adhering to ethical guidelines and ensuring data privacy.
AI in Research
As AI tools become more powerful and accessible, researchers are encouraged to critically assess the implications of their use, ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in their methodologies. Embedding ethical considerations into research design and data practices to create a culture that balances innovation with integrity, helping to shape a future where AI enhances knowledge without compromising societal values.
AI in Operations
Employees are encouraged to explore AI tools to enhance their productivity. AI can augment the workday by automating routine tasks and allowing more time for strategic, creative, or interpersonal work. It is important for employees to recognize AI’s limitations, avoid excessive reliance on it, and ensure human oversight remains at the center of decision-making. This helps maintain trust, accuracy, and fairness in the workplace.
Implementing AI Governance and Oversight
To ensure responsible use of AI platforms and tools, Enterprise Technology has convened a cross-organizational working group to:
- Develop policies, standards, and guidelines for the responsible and ethical use of AI tools and data, including a review of existing information, IT, and data governance policies as they relate to AI.
- Create Training and Awareness Programs to ensure the community is informed about responsible AI use and how to effectively use the approved AI tools.
- Establish Feedback Mechanisms to receive input and continuously improve the policies, guidelines, and programs.