As the University continues to develop its AI strategy, new interim guidance helps staff maximise the benefits and minimise the risks of generative AI.

New guidance that provides University members with practical answers to questions about generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot has now been published.

It follows the release of the AI staff survey in the summer, which invited colleagues to share their concerns and questions.

This interim guidance covers the topics that came up most frequently in that survey, such as which tools are approved by the University, the use of AI in assessment and research, and the implications for sustainability.

The guidance is based on the University’s current positions on use of AI while a new strategy is being developed. The new strategy is expected to be published in early 2027.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Rebecca Lingwood is leading the development. She said: “Responses to the survey clearly showed the strength of desire to use AI tools in a responsible and ethical way, and the areas most in need of guidance.

“We’re now continuing work on the strategy, which will clearly signal the way forward for Lancaster, while enabling our approach to evolve alongside the tools themselves. In the meantime, I hope this guidance is useful and that colleagues will continue to input into Lancaster’s approach.”

While the interim guidance is aimed primarily at staff, some elements will be of interest to students and the strategy itself will be developed collaboratively to ensure that student voices are central.

Access interim guidance and engage with AI strategy development

The new interim guidance is available online. A page also provides more information about work to develop the AI strategy, including the strategy vision and building blocks, and contact details for those wishing to provide input.