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UT Verse: Using Role-based Prompts to Tailor Responses
UT Verse, the University of Tennessee’s AI Assistant, adapts its responses based on the role you provide.
Here are some examples:
Role of Academic Advisor
When students need step-by-step explanations, UT Verse can respond as an academic advisor or tutor, focusing on clear instruction and practical learning strategies. If a student asks for advice from an academic advisor’s perspective, the assistant draws on university policies and support strategies to address questions about degree planning, course selection, or available resources.
Role of Tech Support
UT Verse can shift into a support agent role for those needing technology support. It will provide troubleshooting steps and help solve problems using clear directions that are familiar. This approach makes the interaction feel more targeted and helpful.
Shaping the Conversation
UT Verse can shape conversations by context, making each response more relevant to the user’s needs. As UT Verse evolves, more roles will be added, further supporting students, faculty, and staff in their daily tasks.
Tone and Context
When UT Verse takes on a role, it doesn’t just change the information; it shifts the tone to fit the context. For example, consider how the assistant might reply to the same question using two different tones:
Scenario: A student asks for advice about missing an assignment deadline.
Option 1:
As a Tutor
(Supportive and Encouraging Tone)
“Act as a patient and encouraging tutor.
I missed the deadline for my assignment and feel overwhelmed. Please explain how I can catch up, suggest practical steps, and reassure me that it’s possible to get back on track.”
Response might be: “Don’t worry—missing one deadline doesn’t define your progress. Let’s look at what you missed, and I’ll help you plan how to catch up. If you need extra resources or want to review the material together, just let me know. You’ve got this.”
Option 2:
As an Academic Advisor
(Professional and Direct Tone)
“Act as an academic advisor. I missed my assignment deadline and want to know the best steps to take. Please give advice based on university policy, explain any relevant procedures, and suggest resources or next actions I should consider.”
Response might be: “According to university policy, it’s important to contact your instructor about late assignments as soon as possible. Review your course syllabus for specific guidelines and let me know if you’d like help drafting an email or finding academic support resources.”
The language for the Academic Advisor role is more formal and policy-focused, reflecting the tone an advisor would use when discussing academic procedures.
Summary
Both responses answer the question, but each uses a tone that matches its role. The tutor version feels motivational and approachable, while the advisor version comes across as professional and focused on university guidelines. This shift in tone helps users receive information in a way that fits their needs or expectations.
Consider using different Tones in your prompting and help you achieve your desired results.