Utrecht University launches chatbot for students

Utrecht University has recently launched its own chatbot, aimed at supporting students and staff with study and work-related queries. This tool is designed to enhance efficiency within university systems and online platforms and is a response to the growing need for secure applications of artificial intelligence. With the introduction of the chatbot, the university also anticipates the upcoming European AI regulation (AI Act), which will impact educational institutions.

The chatbot focuses on streamlining everyday tasks such as summarizing texts, translating, and composing emails. By developing an internal tool, the university aims to limit the use of external public AI services like ChatGPT and Gemini. This contributes to data security and minimizes the risk of data breaches, as sensitive study and work information remains within the organization. The rollout of the chatbot is phased, with the university actively seeking user feedback to continuously improve the service.

Privacy and adherence to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are central themes in the development of the chatbot. The university emphasizes that users should not enter confidential or special personal data. Clear guidelines and usage instructions have also been added, ensuring that users are aware of their responsibilities and the tool's limitations. While the chatbot is useful for frequently occurring tasks, it also has limitations; users are encouraged to always conduct their own research and verify factual claims.

Access to the chatbot is only possible for students and staff with an institutional account, contributing to security and preventing misuse. The tool also provides short guides and practical examples to promote the creation of effective prompts. The use of the chatbot is directed towards both educational and research purposes, with applications in various fields. Utrecht University collaborates with other institutions to develop joint guidelines for safe AI applications in education, paving the way for reliable and transparent systems.

Read the full article from AI Insider.