CreateAI Builder: What Faculty Should Know About Student File Uploads


How Are Student-Uploaded Files Handled?

Students may have the option to upload documents (e.g., PDFs, assignment prompts, images) into the chat interface of your bot.

When a student uploads a file:

  • The file is only accessible within their active chat session.
  • It is not stored long-term in the system, tied to your bot’s Knowledge Base, or viewable by others (including you, the builder).
  • Once the session ends, the file disappears; it is not saved or retrievable later.

 Important: This only applies to uploads through the chat interface, not files uploaded by you (the faculty builder) into the Knowledge Base.

Data Privacy & Security

ASU’s CreateAI tools follow university-wide standards for responsible AI use and data privacy. Key points:

  • No student files are permanently stored or reused unless uploaded to the Knowledge Base by the builder.
  • Data is processed securely and stays within the session.
  • ASU’s Digital Trust Guidelines apply.

     

What if a Student Uploads a Copyrighted File?

Faculty are encouraged to:

  • Remind students to only upload materials they own or are permitted to use.
  • Avoid encouraging uploads of full copyrighted texts or sensitive personal data (e.g., medical records, PII).
  • Know that while files aren’t stored, students are still responsible for what they choose to upload. 

For more guidance, review ASU’s:

 Digital Trust & Copyright Guidelines

 

Best Practices for Faculty

To ensure safe and effective student use:

  • Let students know how uploads work and that their files are not saved.
  • If your bot relies on specific resources, consider uploading those to the Knowledge Base yourself (rather than asking students to do so).
  • Reach out to the AI Acceleration team if your use case involves sensitive or high-stakes data.

 Need Support?

For help configuring your bot, planning instruction, or answering student questions about privacy:

 Contact: [email protected]

We’re happy to support you and your students!


Keep Reading

Can I Use FERPA Data in CreateAI Builder?

Faith Timoh Abang

Yes, you may use FERPA-regulated student data in CreateAI Builder, but only under specific conditions. This article explains what that means, what protections are in place, and what responsibilities you have as a project owner.

Accepted File Types in CreateAI Builder

Faith Timoh Abang

CreateAI Builder supports a wide range of file types for uploading into your project’s Knowledge Base. This guide provides the full list of accepted file formats.

Students Using CreateAI: What Happens When You Upload a File?

Faith Timoh Abang

If you’re using a CreateAI chatbot as part of a class, research, or student service, you may have the option to upload files  like PDFs, assignments, or notes into the chat. Here’s what you need to know about how your files are handled and your privacy is protected. 

CreateAI Builder: What Faculty Should Know About Student File Uploads

Faith Timoh Abang

If you’ve created a custom bot using CreateAI Builder for students to use  whether for advising, coursework, or academic support, here's what you need to know about how student file uploads are handled and what safeguards are in place.

This guide covers storage, privacy, copyright, and recommended practices for faculty-led bots.