Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant that helps you with various tasks such as information retrieval, task management, and organizing learning materials. This guide explains how to utilize Copilot and what you need to know about its use and security.
Getting Started
Logging In:
1. Log in with your university credentials at https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat
2. Click the “Sign in” button
3. Log in/register using your JYU username
4. Confirm the login with the Microsoft Authenticator app
5. Once logged in, select “Work” to use the University of Jyväskylä's Copilot
User Interface:
- Familiarize yourself with Copilot's interface and its various functions.
- Use the search bar and menus to find the functions you need.
User Interface in Microsoft Edge Browser:
Microsoft Edge has a built-in Copilot plugin.
- You can access Copilot by clicking the Copilot logo in the top right corner of the browser.
- Make sure you are logged into the browser with your JYU credentials.
- You can find the logged-in profile in the top left corner of the browser.
- By clicking the Copilot logo, a sidebar will open on the browser tab, functioning similarly to the Copilot web address.
Prompting the AI
Prompting means formulating instructions or questions for the AI. Well-formulated prompts help Copilot understand your needs better and produce more accurate responses. Prompting is done in Copilot's text field.
Here is a simple guide for beginners:
Start Clearly:
- State what you want to know or what task you want Copilot to perform. For example: "Can you help me write an email?" or "What's the weather like in Helsinki today?"
Be Specific:
- The more precisely you define your question or task, the better responses you will get. For example: "Can you write an email thanking a customer for their order and informing them about the delivery time?"
Use Examples:
- Sometimes giving an example can help Copilot understand better what you want. For example: "Write an email like this: 'Hi [customer's name], Welcome to the Copilot pilot-program..'"
Ask for More Information:
- If you're not sure how to proceed, you can always ask Copilot for more details or clarifications. For example: "Can you explain in more detail what you mean?"
Be Patient:
- Sometimes it may take a moment to get a perfect response, so be patient and give Copilot time to process your request. You can also start a new conversation where you can try a different prompt to achieve the desired outcome.
Usage Examples
Task Management:
- Create reminders and schedules. For example: "Create a reminder for the math exam next week."
Study Materials:
- Search and organize learning materials. For example: "Find the latest articles on the use of AI in education."
Questions and Answers:
- Ask questions about course materials or assignments. For example: "Explain how photosynthesis works."
Security
Microsoft Copilot's security is designed to protect users' data and privacy. Here are some key security features. NOTE! Security requires using Copilot with JYU credentials to ensure data remains in the university's Azure data center. Note that personal data or other confidential materials, such as academic records, should not be input into the AI.
Data Encryption:
- All data is encrypted during transmission.
Access Control:
- Usernames and passwords protect access to Copilot's data.
- Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
Data Usage:
- Copilot uses data only to perform the requested tasks.
- Data is not shared with third parties.
Instructions for the M365 Copilot which requires a paid licence: https://uno.jyu.fi/fi/ohjeet/it-ohjeet/jarjestelmat/microsoft-365-copilot-kayttoohje
Creating and using Microsoft Copilot Agents: https://app.eduhouse.fi/palvelu/koulutukset/130765009-microsoft-365-copilot-agentit?element=130764832
More information about Microsoft Copilot:
https://learn.microsoft.com/fi-fi/training/modules/use-copilot-to-create-training-materials/
https://learn.microsoft.com/fi-fi/training/modules/boost-productivity-with-copilot/
https://learn.microsoft.com/fi-fi/training/modules/enhance-teaching-learning-bing-chat/
https://learn.microsoft.com/fi-fi/training/modules/manage-microsoft-copilot/
https://learn.microsoft.com/fi-fi/training/modules/explore-microsoft-copilot-business-users/