By adopting generative AI tools, colleagues across Oxford have been able to advance their own personal development and learn new techniques in their working lives with generative AI licences purchased through the AI and Machine Learning Competency Centre.
Using AI as a coding assistant
Eirini Trichia, Senior Statistical Epidemiologist at the Department of Population Health, has been using ChatGPT Enterprise to assist with coding in her work:
As someone who really appreciates learning how to code more efficiently, I was reluctant to use ChatGPT in the beginning, because I did not want to be spoon-fed the answer. However, when I started using ChatGPT for a task that was above my coding skills and I had a tight deadline (so I thought it would be justifiable to use), I realised that if used correctly, it can really help me become very efficient at coding.
Eirini has found using ChatGPT much more time efficient than trying to search for answers on the web. Usually, ChatGPT is able to give her the optimal answer or at least one close to it and on a level exceeding her current skills, so she is able to learn more about complex coding with this – not dissimilar to having a “coding mentor”. She can take this further by having the tool break down and explain individual lines of code to understand how to do it herself in the future.
Getting over writer’s block with AI
Anna Krajewska, Senior Learning Strategist for Oxford Saïd Online at the Saïd Business School, has found ChatGPT useful for helping to overcome writer’s block when tackling larger documents or complex writing tasks. AI can kickstart the process by generating initial drafts or offering new ways to structure content, allowing Anna to focus on nailing the key messaging without getting stuck on phrasing. Freeing up this time allows Anna to spend more time on strategic planning and collaboration to deliver high-quality learning experiences. Anna’s team has also been using ChatGPT, using it for creative brainstorming as well as generating alt text for images, making sure all learners can consistently access learning materials.
Creating manuscripts and proposals with AI
David Clifton, Royal Academy of Engineering Chair of Clinical Machine Learning in the Department of Engineering Science, has found great benefits from incorporating Microsoft 365 Copilot into his team’s work and processes. With many members having English as a second language, AI helps in shaping manuscripts and papers, allowing members of the team to work more independently on papers and reducing the review work needed by senior members of the team. This leaves more time for Clifton’s team to focus on the scientific case in these papers where their efforts are better placed, particularly when 1-2 papers are being produced each week. Additionally, AI supports the creation of grant texts and improves the flow of proposals, aiding both early-career and senior researchers in reviewing and revising.
Get started
While AI tools are not perfect and require supervision, they are invaluable in supporting staff from all areas of work across the University. Both ChatGPT Edu and Microsoft 365 Copilot are now approved for use at Oxford and licences are available for purchase through the AI and ML Competency Centre. With better data protection and discounted prices, join hundreds of GenAI users around the University and discover how these tools can improve your workflows and give you back the time to focus on development.
