How to use generative AI: Understanding GenAI

What is generative AI (GenAI)?

Generative AI is a form of artificial intelligence that can produce text, images, code, and much more.

Unlike traditional AI systems that follow programmed rules, GenAI learns from large data sets to generate entirely new content, which opens fresh opportunities for creative and analytical thinking.

It is no longer just a trend in technology. It’s a massive leap in capability that is already being embedded into education, businesses and industry.

Generative AI practical applications in education

Educators and researchers are actively using GenAI tools like ChatGPT-4o, DALL·E, GitHub Copilot, and Claude to streamline knowledge creation and delivery.

Here are a few ways GenAI is already used in education:

Content planning

Academic staff can use GenAI to draft lecture outlines, summarise readings and prepare preliminary case studies. By using tools like Notion AI, Jasper and Perplexity AI, staff can generate base content that can be refined, which reduces preparation time significantly while preserving quality and originality.

Visualisation and ideation

In creative courses, Midjourney v6, DALL·E 3, and Runway ML can be used to easily create design prototypes. A GenAI-generated mood board can be used to compare aesthetics across different design periods, which enhances visual literacy in a way that has previously been more time-consuming.

Research acceleration and insight discovery

GenAI is proving to be a valuable assistant for researchers. It can be used in a variety of ways including generating concise summaries of academic papers and framing abstracts and hypothesis statements. Tools like Elicit, Scite Assistant and Consensus are helping academics spend less time on repetitive tasks and more on critical inquiry.

Classroom simulation

Educators in Nursing and Health are piloting the use of GenAI to create simulated patient scenarios. These synthetic cases give students an immersive, low-stakes environment for reflection and discussion, which ishelpful for training.

How education is adapting to the Generative AI change

Universities are evolving rapidly to keep pace with AI. GenAI is integrated into teaching frameworks, learning environments, and institutional strategies to empower educators.

However, we need to be aware of the ethical issues surrounding the use of GenAI. Faculty development sessions are now incorporating AI literacy and ethical use, while internal guidelines are helping staff navigate issues like intellectual property, citation of AI-generated work, and maintaining academic integrity.

GenAI Lab on campus

Tech and education came together at the GenAI Lab series. Applied GenAI: Insights from Product & Design Leaders, co-hosted by Torrens University with Torri Consulting. Leaders from business, product development, and design explored real-world applications of generative AI, including how it is reshaping workflows, accelerating innovation, and driving competitive advantage across industries.

Learn more about the ethical Generative AI by reading our guide here.

The Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Optimisation (AIRO) at Torrens University is further exploring ways to make GenAI more cost-effective while ensuring that its outcomes remain secure and trustworthy.

For media enquiries or interviews with our artificial intelligence experts at AIRO, email media.enquiries@torrens.edu.au.