“Can I use this content in this tool?”: Navigating the Nuances of Copyright and Generative AI

Facilitators: 
Jordan Holmes, Senior Manager, Teaching, Learning & Technology, CTSI and Academic, Research & Collaborative Technologies
Stephanie Orfano, Head, Scholarly Communications and Copyright Office, University of Toronto Libraries (UTL)
Victoria Sheldon, Faculty Liaison Coordinator, Generative AI Pedagogies, CTSI
Graeme Slaght, Scholarly Communications and Copyright Librarian, Scholarly Communications & Copyright Office, UTL

In the era of widespread GenAI, answering this question can be more difficult than it seems.  

With the rapid evolution of GenAI tools and applications, the legal and policy frameworks governing GenAI use are full of grey areas and subject to change.  This resulting uncertainty can create challenges in navigating the lawful use of these technologies.

This workshop will introduce participants broadly to questions that arise when integrating approved and non-approved GenAI tools into teaching, using the metaphor of the “Walled Garden” to frame U of T’s protected digital environment. From there, the workshop will segue into a more focused discussion on copyright, using case studies to guide the conversation

By participating in the workshop, participants will gain a better understanding of the copyright and licensing concerns that govern the use of GenAI tools, as well as the library eResources that are available to support GenAI use.

Along the way, participants will become familiar with:

• U of T-recommended best practices for the use of open or closed GenAI tools, and the suitability of various kind of content in open or closed environments
• Key copyright and licensing terminology to help participants understand their rights and obligations (and those of their students)
• Answers to some common AI copyright and licensing questions