HokieAI for Students


Introduction

HokieAI is Virginia Tech's secure enterprise AI platform, providing you with access to powerful generative AI models within a protected environment approved for up to high-risk data. This article provides guidance on accessing the platform, using it for coursework, and adhering to academic integrity standards.

Instructions

As a student, you should use HokieAI because it provides a safe, university-approved environment to experiment with generative AI, support learning, and assist with coursework while ensuring data privacy and maintaining academic standards. However, you should always check with your instructor to ensure that AI is permitted.

Getting Started

Accessing the Portal

  1. Navigate to hokie.ai.vt.edu (or hokie.ai).
  2. When prompted, sign in using your Virginia Tech username and passphrase.
  3. Complete any required authentication (e.g., Duo multifactor). 
  4. Review and accept any usage guidelines or policies.
  5. You’ll be directed to the main dashboard.

For an overview of the interface, please refer to Getting Started with HokieAI: A Quick Onboarding Guide.

AI and Academic Integrity at Virginia Tech

Interpreting Course AI Policies

Before using AI, always check your syllabus or course documents:

  1. Is AI explicitly addressed?
  2. Are specific tools or models mentioned?
  3. Are specific portions of an assignment permitted (e.g., brainstorming vs. drafting)?

If no policy is provided, do not assume AI is permitted; default to the Undergraduate Honor Code or Graduate Honor System.

Exporting Chats

To preserve records of your work or to fulfill citation requirements:

  1. Open the specific conversation within HokieAI you wish to document.
  2. Click the three dots in the upper left corner.
  3. Click export from the drop-down menu.
  4. A .txt file will be saved to your local device.

Documenting and Citing AI Use

When using HokieAI for your coursework, follow these best practices:

  • Define the purpose of your AI use (e.g., brainstorming, outlining, coding help).
  • Maintain a log of your prompts and responses (use the export feature).
  • Cite AI use appropriately based on your instructor’s guidelines. Use resources like Using and Citing AI (University Libraries).

Responsible Use

When using HokieAI, you are responsible for adhering to Virginia Tech policies such as the Virginia Tech Acceptable Use Policy and the Division of IT’s Risk Classification. In short:

  • Use resources only for authorized purposes.
  • Protect your credentials.
  • Be aware of what data you are entering into third-party platforms.

You are also encouraged to follow the VT Responsible and Ethical AI Principles.

What happens if I exceed my monthly usage limit?

See Why did I receive an error about reaching my monthly budget limit in HokieAI? 

Support & Resources

  • ai.vt.edu: The central hub for AI governance and principles at Virginia Tech.
  • 4Help: For technical issues, login problems, or platform access questions.
  • For pedagogical questions or assignment-specific inquiries, please contact your instructor directly.