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AI @ Palo Alto University

 

 

 

 

 

Palo Alto University commits to building human-centered AI competency, embracing adaptive innovation, and harnessing the power of technology to enhance behavioral science education, empowering our students, faculty, and staff to lead in a rapidly changing world.

Human Understanding in the Age of AI

Our work is advancing human understanding, and our vision describes a future where the tools we create serve humanity rather than diminish it. AI is becoming part of how we teach, learn, conduct research, and run the university, and we use it to support that work, with people making the decisions.

We use tools that have been reviewed for privacy and security, we protect the personal information of our students, employees, and the clients served by our clinics, and we follow clear ethical principles. We also prepare our students to use AI thoughtfully in psychology, counseling, social work, and the other professions they're entering.

AI Policy

Review Palo Alto University's policy on Artificial Intelligence.

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AI Tools

The AI tools reviewed by PAU IT and Security, and the kinds of data each one can handle.

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AI Usage by Data Classification

Which tools you can use with Public, Private, and Restricted data.

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Ethical Principles for AI Use

Transparency, accountability, fairness and equity, and integrity.

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For additional information, check out our Definitions & Key Terms and Resources & References pages.

FAQ

What is considered Artificial Intelligence (AI) under this policy?

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AI includes systems or tools that perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence, such as text generation, image creation, data analysis, or automated decision-making. Examples include ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, and similar technologies.

Does this policy apply to all AI tools, even free ones?

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Yes. The policy applies to all AI tools—whether free, paid, or provided through institutional licenses—when used for academic, research, or administrative purposes.

Can students use AI for coursework?

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Students may use AI for ideation, translation, or research assistance only if explicitly permitted by the instructor. Unauthorized or uncredited AI use is treated as academic dishonesty under PAU’s Academic Honor Code.

How should AI-generated content be cited?

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AI outputs must be acknowledged in the same way as any external source. Students should include the tool name, version (if available), and prompt or description of use (e.g., “Generated using ChatGPT, prompt: summarize Chapter 3 of…”).

Are faculty required to allow AI use in their courses?

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No. Faculty have full discretion to determine if and how AI tools may be used. These expectations should be clearly stated in the syllabus (e.g., permitted, guided, or prohibited use).

What precautions must be taken when using AI for research?

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Researchers must not input any restricted or protected data (e.g., FERPA, HIPAA, GLBA) into public AI tools. All AI-assisted research must comply with PAU’s Data Management and Cybersecurity Policies, and may require Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval.

Can staff use AI for administrative tasks?

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Yes, when approved and aligned with PAU data protection standards. Examples include drafting communications or improving workflows. Departments should conduct Risk and Equity Assessments before operationalizing AI use.

Can AI replace staff or faculty positions?

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No. The replacement of human roles with AI will not occur without ethical review, stakeholder consultation, and approval from PAU leadership.

What are some examples of prohibited AI use?

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· Entering confidential or student data into external AI systems

· Generating discriminatory or harassing content

· Using AI to falsify information or credentials

· Violating laws, contracts, or institutional policies through AI-generated actions

Who do I contact with questions about using AI tools?

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· Provost’s Office: Academic and faculty-related AI guidance

· Information Technology (IT): Tool approval, risk assessments, technical support

· Human Resources: Staff-related use and compliance inquiries

· Institutional Review Board (IRB): Research ethics and approvals

What happens if someone violates this policy?

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Violations are handled according to existing PAU procedures:

· Students: Academic Honor Code process

· Faculty: Reported to the Provost’s Office

· Staff: Reported to the supervisor or Human Resources

How often will this policy be reviewed?

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The AI Policy will be reviewed annually, consistent with the Policy Review section of this document[DS1] by the Provost’s Office, CIO/vCISO, and faculty representatives to ensure it remains aligned with evolving technologies and regulations.

Need Help or Approval?

Key Rule to Remember

If the data is private or restricted, do not use Public AI tools.

Does this involve private or restricted data? Is this tool approved by PAU? Would I be comfortable sharing this information publicly?

IF UNSURE → Do not proceed and contact IT or your supervisor