What is Generative AI
Generative AI (GenAI) is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that creates new content based on what it has learned from existing content. Some examples of generative AI include:
- Text generators: These can write articles, stories, poems, and more based on a prompt.
- Image generators: These can create original images based on text descriptions or other images.
- Music generators: These can compose music in various styles and genres.
CSU Artificial Intelligence Strategy
On February 4, 2025, The California State University (CSU) system launched a system-wide AI initiative. The program will:
- Deploy AI tools, including OpenAI's ChatGPT Edu, across all 23 CSU campuses, reaching 460,000 students and 63,000 faculty and staff
- Create an AI Workforce Acceleration Board with tech industry partners
- Establish an AI Commons Hub providing free AI tools, training, and certifications
- Help jump-start AI-enhanced teaching methods and research opportunities
- Develop apprenticeship programs with tech companies
The CSU Chancellor's Office agreement with OpenAI better ensures the security and privacy of user data. ChatGPT Edu does not scrape faculty, student, or staff data to train future models, making it more secure than using the free, publicly available version of ChatGPT. The system license is also less expensive than any one CSU campus securing its own agreement, while granting equal and secure access to all campus stakeholders. This system-wide investment is independent of any local campus investment.