University-approved AI tool
Loughborough University provides access to Microsoft Copilot Chat, which is available through your University Microsoft account. This ensures your data is secure and that compliance standards are met in the same way as other Microsoft tools used at the University. Information you enter, or which Copilot Chat generates, is not used by Microsoft or shared more widely. Data you enter is isolated and not shared across different users within the University.
While AI offers incredible potential, existing rules on copyright, data protection and intellectual property still apply. Just like any other tool, sensitive data must be handled with care and comply with legislation.
Important: Always verify that you are logged in with your University account when using Microsoft Copilot Chat. If you use a personal email or any non-University credentials, your data will not be covered by University software security licences. Look for the green shield icon at the top of the chat to confirm you are using the approved version.
Caution with public AI tools
Many freely available AI tools, including ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, Perplexity, and Claude, can improve efficiency and workflow. However, they do not provide the same security guarantees as the University version of Microsoft Copilot Chat. Some of these tools collect more data than users may expect, including keystroke patterns, usage behaviour, and personal information.
If you choose to use public AI tools, carefully review their privacy policies. You should not upload or enter queries and prompts that include any sensitive, personal, or confidential information.
Developing Loughborough’s AI approach
The University has launched an overarching project to coordinate its response to AI, aiming to bring together existing work across different areas to explore both opportunities and risks. This approach is under development and will continue to evolve, providing guidance, updates, and opportunities to get involved as the University shapes its AI strategy.
Useful Resources
- IT Services: AI Guidelines at Loughborough
- Academic Practice Guides: Artificial Intelligence in Learning and Teaching