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What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
The European Commission defines Artificial Intelligence as systems that perceive their environment, interpret data, reason on that information, and decide on actions to achieve specific goals. AI systems may use symbolic rules or learned models and can adapt their behaviour over time.
Reference: European Commission (2019) definition, cited in MTU’s Statement of Intent on AI.
What is Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)?
Under the EU Artificial Intelligence Act (2024), Generative AI refers to AI models capable of producing new content such as text, images, audio and other media. These models present major innovation opportunities while also raising challenges for authorship, integrity, and the way creative and academic work is produced.
Reference: EU AI Act definition, cited in MTU’s Statement of Intent on AI.
Irish Higher Education Context
National bodies including the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (NFETLHE), and National Academic Integrity Network (NAIN) highlight the importance of:
- AI literacy for staff and students
- transparency in use of AI
- responsible, ethical practice
- safeguards for academic integrity
- assessment redesign where needed
These perspectives frame how AI and GenAI influence teaching, learning, and academic integrity across the sector.
MTU’s Position on AI
MTU supports the legitimate and appropriate use of AI tools when applied responsibly, ethically, and in accordance with university values, academic and research integrity policies, cybersecurity guidance, and legal frameworks.
The university recognises both the opportunities AI presents and the need for caution, clarity, and responsible use.
MTU Statement of Intent on Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Approved by University Executive, June 2025
View the Statement of Intent (PDF)
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