at OCAD U

OCAD U’s guiding commitments

Responsible AI Innovation  

The university cultivates responsible AI innovation by advancing knowledge, creativity and public benefit in AI use. Grounded in critical inquiry, evidence‑informed practice and transparent decision-making, we will evaluate, adopt and engage with AI in ways that enhance learning, research and creative practice, while upholding our commitments to equity, sustainability, privacy and security. 

 

Data Sovereignty and Stewardship 

The university is committed to advancing Canadian and Indigenous data sovereignty for responsible AI. Working collaboratively with Indigenous and community partners, we will foster data governance practices that respect Indigenous rights and knowledge, support Indigenous community authority and stewardship, and guide the ethical use of AI across learning, research and creative activities.

 

Human-Centred Practice 

The university affirms that human experience, judgment, creativity and relationality are the foundation of learning and creative practice. AI will be leveraged to enhance and extend these strengths, supporting people in advancing knowledge creation, creative practice and decision‑making. 

 

KnowledgeCreation and Inquiry 

The university understands knowledge creation as a dynamic process of learning, exploration and innovation. We will leverage AI to advance discovery, foster creativity and support new, purpose-driven forms of creativity and inquiry. 

 

Education First 

The university recognizes education as foundational to responsible AI enablement and innovation. We value critical inquiry, informed engagement, and lifelong learning as essential capacities for navigating AI critically and responsibly across diverse fields of practice. 

 

Equitable and Inclusive Access 

The university is committed to ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible to all. We believe AI adoption should expand opportunity, enhance inclusion, remove barriers and enable full participation for all learners, educators and creators. 

These commitments inform AI adoption across the university in ways that are aligned with our educational mission and our institutional values. 

These commitments stem from OCAD U’s AI principles, which were developed by OCAD U’s 2024-2025 AI Advisory Panel and reviewed by OCAD U’s Senate, to guide the development of AI-related approaches and provide direction for related institutional strategy. The committee was co-chaired by Dr. Adam Tindale and Dr. Jutta Treviranus and members included students, faculty and staff with an interest and expertise in AI and GAI.

 

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