New guidance available: Copyright and generative artificial intelligence

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and related technologies are subject to existing laws and regulations in Canada, such as intellectual property, copyright and privacy laws, among others. The legal status (e.g., copyright legislation and case law) of GenAI services is currently unsettled in Canada. A new guide on GenAI and copyright is available; designed to help you make an informed decision about using GenAI-created content.

We understand that use of GenAI services is widespread, not only at Waterloo, but across the higher education sector and in the general public. In certain areas, particularly in classes where you are teaching about AI, avoiding its use would be a detriment to your students. The guide provides copyright-related context and recommendations for principled, risk-informed use of AI services.