Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered assistant available to students, faculty, and staff at Minnesota State University, Mankato. This article outlines how to securely access Copilot using your StarID credentials, ensuring compliance with FERPA and the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA).
Accessing Microsoft Copilot with StarID
To use Microsoft Copilot securely:
Benefits of Using StarID for Copilot Access
Signing in with your StarID ensures that your interactions with Copilot are protected within the university's secure Microsoft 365 environment. This setup offers several advantages:
- Data Security – Your data remains within the institution’s protected infrastructure, reducing exposure to external threats.
- Compliance – Ensures adherence to FERPA and MGDPA regulations, safeguarding student records and sensitive information.
- Privacy – Your prompts and Copilot’s responses are not used to train external AI models, ensuring confidentiality.
Compliance with FERPA and MGDPA
Microsoft 365 Copilot is designed to comply with:
- FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) – A U.S. federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.
- MGDPA (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act) – Governs how government data, including educational records, is collected, stored, and shared in Minnesota.
By using your StarID to access Copilot, you ensure that your data handling aligns with these legal protections.
Best Practices for Using Copilot
- Verify AI-Generated Content – Always review and, if necessary, modify content produced by Copilot to ensure accuracy and appropriateness.
- Avoid Sensitive Data – Refrain from inputting highly confidential information, such as health records or sensitive personal data, into Copilot.
- Stay Informed – Regularly consult university guidelines and resources on AI usage to remain compliant with institutional policies.
FAQ
Q: Is it safe to use Microsoft Copilot for academic work?
A: Yes, when accessed using your StarID, Copilot operates within the university’s secure environment, ensuring data protection and compliance with relevant privacy laws.
Q: Can I use Copilot without signing in with my StarID?
A: While possible, using Copilot without your StarID means your data won’t be protected within the university’s secure environment, potentially violating data protection policies.
Q: How does Microsoft ensure the privacy of my data when using Copilot?
A: Microsoft 365 Copilot is designed to protect organizational data, ensuring that user interactions remain confidential and are not used to train external AI models.
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