Harnessing GenAI for Research

Harnessing GenAI for Research was developed by Western University's School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies as a companion to the Guidance for the Use of Generative AI in Graduate Studies. This course prompts graduate student researchers to take ownership of the five principles of generative AI use outlined in the guidance and translate them into action items for future activities.

This course will introduce Generative AI and the concept of GenAI-augmented research from two distinct perspectives: GenAI as an instrument and GenAI as a collaborator. The value vs. risk of GenAI use in all stages of research and creative activity will be discussed, as well as considerations for appropriate use and maintenance of agency as a researcher.

Throughout each module, there are opportunities to check your knowledge and deepen your learning through reflective activities, including the development of a personal statement on GenAI use following Module 5.

This open training course is available to all members of the Western community through Brightspace as a freely accessible Training Course, and anyone with a Western identity can self‑enroll at any time.

 

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the 5 ethical principles that guide the use of generative AI in research and creative activities at Western.
  • Appraise the value versus risk of generative AI use in all stages of research and creative activities.
  • Identify and explain when it is appropriate and when it is inappropriate to use generative-AI in all stages of research and creative activities.
  • Recognize techniques for maintaining agency as a researcher by using generative AI as a tool to augment specific research activities.

badgeOwn Your Future Digital Badge

This course also offers an opportunity to earn a digital badge through the Own Your Future program. If you would like to earn the badge, please ensure you complete the Final Quiz with a score of at least 80%.

Important Note: Please allow up to 6 weeks processing time for the badge once the Final Quiz has been submitted.

About the Instructor

The content of this course was provided by Carson Johnston (she/her), a Ph.D. student in Philosophy at Western University and a member of the Rotman Institute of Philosophy. Carson's research sits at the intersection of philosophy of mind, epistemology, and artificial intelligence, focusing on how AI shapes human agency. Carson investigates the consequences of anthropomorphism in AI design and develops conceptual strategies for using artificial intelligence to advance social and scientific progress. Her works aims to inform responsible AI design, policy, and interdisciplinary approaches to emerging technologies.