AI Tools: ChatGPT, Copilot, and Large Language Models

How do Helena College students access Copilot?

Helena College students have access to Microsoft Copilot through Microsoft 365 apps. Click the Microsoft 365 Apps button on the Student Portal. Logging into the Helena College version means that your information won't be used for training LLMs.

Microsoft offers videos and tutorials for learning how to use Copilot. These are linked below.

What can students accomplish with Copilot?

• Get explanations/outlines of important concepts
• Get help with vocabulary/key term review   
• Generate practice questions to a quiz or an exam.
• Create flashcards
• Get feedback on a sample of your writing.
• Get a summary of a topic or reading
• Brainstorm initial ideas when writing a prompt.
• Get study tips: For examples, prompt Copilot or ChatGPT to suggest areas of focus for future studying: Based on my performance so far, what areas should I focus on in my studying?
• Any others consistent with Helena College acceptable use and academic honest policy and permitted by instructor

Best practices with inquiries

• Be clear about explaining purposes and goals.
• The more context you give Copilot or ChatGPT, the better. Provide as much information as possible in your first prompt so you get better information.
• Input materials when possible. Many AI platforms allow for the upload of PDFs or direct text input.
• Refine your prompt once you get a response.

Examples of a prompt for summarizing an uploaded article:

• Too Broad: "Summarize this article for me."
• More specific: "Summarize the main arguments presented in the article 'Prioritize environmental sustainability in use of AI and data science methods' in 300 words. Make sure to highlight the authors' perspective on energy usage."

Microsoft has resources on creating better prompts for Copilot. You can find these linked below.