New AI policy approved at Reykjavik University: Value creation, humanity, and responsible use

A new artificial intelligence (AI) policy for Reykjavík University (RU) was approved at a meeting of the university's Executive Board at the end of September. The policy is based on RU's Strategy for 2030 and sets out the university's commitment to making responsible use of advances in technology and artificial intelligence.

The purpose of RU's AI Policy is to ensure that the university approaches advances in artificial intelligence with the same integrity that guides all other aspects of its operations. The university aims to embrace the opportunities ambitiously, put humanity first, and ensure that AI is used responsibly.

A roadmap for the future

Dr. Bryndís Björk Ásgeirsdóttir, Vice President for Learning, Students and Sustainability at RU, was one of the people involved in developing the AI policy. She says that RU is approaching the development of artificial intelligence with foresight and critical thinking, ensuring that technology supports people rather than replacing human judgement.

"The reason we developed this policy is that we can see how rapidly artificial intelligence is changing approaches and working practices in teaching and learning, research and innovation, and people's everyday work - and, consequently, the needs of the business community.

As part of the policy development process, we brought staff and students to the table to share the opportunities and challenges they foresee for the university's operations in this area, as well as their vision for the future use of artificial intelligence.

The policy is therefore a roadmap for all of us as we move into the future. Given the rapid pace of development in artificial intelligence, we naturally expect to review the policy regularly in light of our experience and technological advances.

The next steps are to continue implementing the policy and developing various projects and initiatives to support it. These initiatives will take place both at the university-wide level and within all of the university's schools, departments and operational units," says Bryndís Björk.

Applies to all students and staff

The AI policy applies across all of Reykjavík University's activities: teaching and learning, research and innovation, as well as administration and operations. It covers all students and staff across every school, department and operational unit.

The policy rests on three fundamental pillars: value creation, humanity, and responsible use.

Presentation of Reykjavík University's AI Policy (PDF).