What is Gemini?

Haruna Hosokawa Updated by Haruna Hosokawa

What is Gemini?

Gemini is a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) chatbot developed by Google. Gemini responds to user prompts by generating text and images. It is Google's version of ChatGPT, with additional image capabilities.

Please see BPS's Guidance on the use of Artificial Intelligence in BPS for general guidance and best practices for using any AI tools.

Who has access to Gemini?

Currently, Gemini is available to all staff with BPS Google accounts. You can access it at https://gemini.google.com/ or via Clever by locating the icon below under Staff Links.

Students do not have access to Gemini in their BPS accounts; however, students 13 years and older may have access to Gemini on their personal Gmail accounts. Gemini is not intended for children under 13.

How does Gemini work?

Gemini and other GenAI tools are all based on "Large Language Models (LLMs)" which learn a language by analyzing vast amounts of text, or training data. LLMs generate new text based on analysis of training data by predicting the most likely outcome, much like how autocomplete works on your phone but on a larger scale. For more about how LLMs work, watch this video.

Is Gemini safe to use?

As with any GenAI tools, there are some precautions you should take when using Gemini.

  • Privacy: Never enter your own or your students' personal information such as name, birthday, ID#, address, etc. Also be careful when uploading images to Gemini; never upload images with students or any identifiable information.
  • Accuracy: Always fact-check all text and image created by Gemini. GenAI tools generate text based on probability, and is not always correct.
  • Bias: Check for bias. Text and images generated by Gemini can take on the bias of its training data. Critically examine the output for bias before sharing with others to avoid perpetuating biases.

ℹ️ For more information about Gemini and some use cases, see this article.

🖥️ To get started with Gemini, see Generative AI for Educators, a free and self-paced PD by Google.

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