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AI WITHIN OTIDE

AI Within OTIDE

AI Innovation at OTIDE

At OTIDE, we’re committed to helping faculty, staff, and campus partners understand and responsibly integrate artificial intelligence into their work. Through in-person presentations, practical resources, and collaborative learning opportunities, we make AI accessible and relevant. Whether it’s enhancing teaching, streamlining operations, or exploring new technologies, OTIDE equips our community to use AI with confidence and purpose.


AI Programs, Tools, and Tips

AI Do's and Don'ts
DoDon't
Understand the Tool

Before using an AI tool, take the time to read the user manual or watch tutorial videos. For example, if you’re using Microsoft Copilot, explore its features and understand how it can assist you in drafting documents or analyzing data.
Don't Rely Solely on AI

Use AI tools as a supplement, not a replacement, for human judgment. For example, while AI can help draft emails, always review and personalize the content before sending.
Use Ethically

Ensure that your use of AI tools aligns with ethical guidelines. For instance, avoid using AI to generate misleading information or to manipulate data in a way that could harm others.
Don't Share Sensitive Data

Avoid inputting confidential information into AI tools. For instance, do not share your company’s financial data or personal passwords with AI chatbots.
Verify Information

Always double-check the information provided by AI tools. For example, if an AI tool suggests a particular data trend, cross-reference it with other reliable sources to confirm its accuracy.
Don't Ignore Bias

Be aware of potential biases in AI tools. For example, if an AI tool consistently favors certain outcomes, investigate and adjust the tool’s settings to ensure fairness.
Maintain Privacy

Protect sensitive data when using AI tools. For instance, avoid inputting personal health information or confidential business data into AI tools unless you are sure they are secure.
Don't Overuse

Use AI tools appropriately and avoid over-reliance. For instance, while AI can assist with tasks, ensure you also apply your own expertise and critical thinking.
Stay Updated

Keep up with the latest updates and improvements to the AI tools you use. For example, regularly check for software updates and new features that can enhance your productivity.
Don't Skip Training

Ensure you are properly trained on how to use AI tools effectively. For example, attend workshops or training sessions or seek out documentation to stay informed about best practices and new functionalities.
AI Programs, Usage, and Cost (random selection as of May 2025)
AI ProgramFree to UseFree TrialFree CreditsPaid OnlyDetails
ChatGPT

Chat-based AI assistant
XFree GPT-3.5GPT-4Free GPT-3.5 access; GPT-4 (ChatGPT Plus) is $20/month.
Claude AI

Text-based AI assistant
LimitedFree UseXFree access on platforms like Poe; higher usage may require a subscription.
Notion

Organization and task management
XFree for personal use with limited features; paid plans offer advanced tools and collaboration.
Apple's Writing Tools

iOS/macOS writing help
XFree as part of Apple software (e.g., Pages, Notes, and AI-assisted suggestions).
Grammarly

Writing and grammar checker
XFree version available; paid plans for advanced writing suggestions.
Rytr

AI writing and content generator
Free PlanFree plan with limited words; paid plans for higher word counts and features.
Jasper AI

Advanced writing and content creation
X5 DaysXFree trial for new users; fully paid afterward.
InVideo

Video editing and creation
LimitedXFree tier includes watermarked exports; paid plans unlock premium features.
Sora AI

Text-to-video generation
XXXAvailable with ChatGPT subscription (e.g., ChatGPT Plus or Pro).
ElevenLabs

AI voice and text-to-speech
LimitedFree tier with limited voice generation; paid plans for premium features.
iSpeech

Text-to-speech and voice synthesis
LimitedXFree tier for basic use; paid plans unlock premium features and APIs.
Leonardo AI

AI image and asset generation
LimitedXMonthlyFree monthly credits; paid plans for more credits and advanced features.
Canva's Dream Lab

AI image generation
LimitedFree TierFree tier with limited features; paid subscription for premium content generation.
Adobe Firefly

Creative AI tools in Adobe
XLimited UseFree Creative Cloud subscription; available to trial for limited use.
MidJourney

AI art creation via prompts
XXFree trial via Discord with limited generations; fully paid afterward.
Stable Diffusion

Open-source image generator
Open-sourceXXFree as open-source software; additional services may involve costs.

AI Teaching Resources

Presentations

Videos

Discover more from the UA Teaching Academy and the K. Patricia Cross Academy.

Recent Videos

Meet the OTIDE AI Road Team

Lee Laska

Assistant Director in ITAS and CAMS Team Lead

ldlaska@ua.edu