U of T's AI Task Force Releases Recommendations

The University of Toronto’s AI Task Force has unveiled a set of high-level recommendations aimed at transforming the institution into an AI-ready leader. These recommendations emphasize the careful and ethical integration of artificial intelligence across teaching, research, student services, and administrative operations, while upholding the university’s core values.

The final report, released by the Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, outlines a strategic vision to position U of T as a pioneer in the responsible use of AI technology. The report highlights four key recommendations: increasing AI knowledge and expertise across the university, creating AI-ready infrastructure, establishing AI response teams for support, and forming an AI adoption advisory table for guidance.

Focus on People and Ethical AI Integration

The report’s approach is centered on people, prioritizing the development of AI knowledge and expertise among faculty, staff, and students. Susan McCahan, special adviser to the provost on artificial intelligence, emphasized the importance of a value-based and principles-based approach to AI integration. She stated, “Responding to AI is essential, and U of T can lead by demonstrating a thoughtful and ethical approach to working with this technology.”

The task force acknowledged the rapidly evolving nature of AI, including advancements in generative AI, large language models like ChatGPT, and machine learning for pattern discovery and data analysis. To avoid quickly outdated recommendations, the report focuses on flexible frameworks rather than specific technologies.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

While the report highlights the potential benefits of AI—such as enhancing accessibility, supporting research collaborations, and driving innovation—it also acknowledges the risks. These include bias, misuse, environmental impact, and the potential for AI to undermine explainable decision-making. McCahan noted, “The key is to balance these risks with the opportunities AI presents, ensuring that our approach is both innovative and responsible.”

Working Groups and AI Initiatives

To develop its recommendations, the task force engaged six working groups focused on teaching and learning, research, student services, administration, operations, and institutional technology. Timothy Chan, co-chair of the research group, highlighted the potential of AI in streamlining research administration and enhancing cross-disciplinary collaborations. He shared an example of an AI model developed for Mount Sinai Hospital’s milk bank, which improved the nutritional composition of breast milk for hospitalized babies.

The operations and planning group, led by Ron Saporta, experimented with AI tools to automate repetitive tasks and improve forecasting. One initiative involved developing a chatbot to assist staff with procurement questions, which proved accurate and efficient in handling low-value work.

Other AI Initiatives at U of T

McCahan also mentioned existing AI initiatives at U of T, including the Navi virtual assistant, which helps students find campus information such as mental health services. A pilot program to help faculty members build AI tutors for their courses is set to expand, along with access to a secure version of ChatGPT and the launch of Digital Learning Innovation’s GenAI Literacy Open Educational Resources.

The Path Forward

The university will now consider how to adopt and implement the report’s recommendations. Trevor Young, U of T vice-president and provost, expressed gratitude to the task force and stated, “These recommendations will guide U of T in embracing AI and bolstering its role as an AI leader.” McCahan emphasized the importance of collaboration in making wise choices, adding, “The report provides a flexible framework for embracing AI, considering risk, supporting learning, and ensuring U of T maintains its principled approach.”