Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Copilot is an AI-driven chat tool which enables you to create content, collaborate, and find solutions seamlessly.
The University's recommended generative AI tool is Google Gemini.
It's important you use generative AI responsibly and protect University data. Before you start, read Generative AI tools and guidance.
Key features
- Provides access to cutting-edge AI models such as GPT-4 and DALL-E 3.
- Summarises content from lengthy web pages.
- Explains complicated topics in basic terms.
- Creates initial drafts of written content, such as emails and documents, based on brief information you provide.
- Generates images based on your prompt.
Access instructions
- Select Sign in with a work or school account and enter your York email address and password.
- Duo two-factor authentication is required.
Available to staff and students
You can use this service on University-managed and personal devices.
Web-based
This service works in your web browser.
Funded by the University
There isn’t a cost to you for standard use.
Additional information
When you're logged into Copilot with your University account:
- Microsoft does not retain any questions, chat prompts or responses from Copilot.
- All data is discarded when you leave the Copilot site, or if you close your browser.
- The data you enter is not used to train the underlying AI language model.
This is indicated by the Protected icon in the top corner.
More information on these protections is available on Microsoft’s website:
- Privacy and protections (microsoft.com)
Access instructions
- Select Sign in with a work or school account and enter your York email address and password.
- Duo two-factor authentication is required.
Guides and help
Training and best practice
- Generative AI tools and guidance: find out what you need to know before using them and how to use them responsibly. You can also find specific guidance for staff, students and researchers.
- Generative AI enhanced teaching and learning
- Use of generative Artificial Intelligence in PGR programmes
- Using AI generation tools - Digital Creativity: a Practical Guide
- Copilot Lab (microsoft.com)
Accessibility
- View accessibility reports from Microsoft (microsoft.com)
Contact for support
If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.
Service commitments
In order to keep University data secure and comply with data protection laws, staff and students must only use generative AI tools that are provided and licensed by the University. This ensures appropriate contractual provisions are in place to protect University data. Do not use personal accounts with the same or alternative providers as these do not provide the same level of protections.
The University's guidance on using information classification sets out how generative AI may be used responsibly with different classifications of University information. You must read this guidance and familiarise yourself with the types of information it is safe to share with GenAI tools before using them.
The use of personal data is governed by the University’s Data Protection Policy and associated Special Categories of Personal Data Policy, if you are processing personal data that is likely to result in a high risk to individuals’ interests you must undertake the . This will help to ensure compliance with Data Protection legislation. For support with this, please contact the Data Protection team.
You must not upload any copyrighted content, including journals, to any generative AI tools unless you have confirmed this is acceptable with the publisher; please contact your faculty librarian to discuss this.
Availability
- This is a live service, available 24/7.
Support
- This service is managed by a third party.
- They are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults. We provide advice and support for local issues during our opening hours.
Standards
- Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers. We regularly monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.
We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.
Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024