Generative AI and Copilot: 1. Using Gen AI to Understand

Generative AI (e.g. Copilot & ChatGPT) is a powerful tool to help you study. Although you should never rely on gen AI outputs for final submissions, it can be useful in your study process. You should always consult your lecturer about the use of gen AI in your unit.

ECU suggests using gen AI as a kind of "Study Buddy" to help you develop approaches to a topic or assessment, generate ideas, and review your understanding of a subject.

Some suggestions for how to use gen AI as a part of your study process are:

• Ask it to explain difficult concepts to you (try it in different ways):

  • PROMPT: “Copilot, you are a 1st year Nursing student at university, explain Foucault’s concept of ‘Disciplinary power’ in no more than five dot-points”

  • PROMPT: “I’m still not getting the ideas behind ‘Disciplinary power,’ can you describe it to me like you’re an old Scottish grandma?”

• Use it to help you brainstorm topics -- This can help you develop your argument, and search strategies:
  • PROMPT: "What are some related topics and keywords regarding Foucault's concept of "Disciplinary Power"?"
     
• Get it to quiz you on lecture notes and create practice questions for you to try:
  • PROMPT: "Ask me five review questions on 'Disciplinary Power.'"
  • HINT: Ask for more detailed follow-up questions.