A.I. & ChatGPT

Describing Your Use of ChatGPT in Your Paper

When incorporating text generated by ChatGPT into your research, it is essential to transparently describe your methodology. This can be done in the Method section or introduction of your paper, depending on the nature of your research. Specifically, mention how you used ChatGPT, provide the prompt you used, and include any relevant text generated in response.

However, it's crucial to note that ChatGPT's chat sessions are not retrievable by others, which poses a unique citation challenge. Unlike personal communications, where the source is a person, quoting ChatGPT's text is similar to sharing the output of an algorithm. In such cases, it is appropriate to credit the author of the algorithm (in this case, OpenAI) with a reference list entry and corresponding in-text citation.

Example:

When prompted with "Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?" the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that although the two brain hemispheres are somewhat specialized, "the notation that people can be characterized as 'left-brained' or 'right-brained' is considered to be an oversimplification and a popular myth" (OpenAI, 2023).

For longer ChatGPT responses, consider including the full text in an appendix or supplemental materials to provide readers with access to the exact content generated. 

Creating a Reference for ChatGPT or Similar AI Models

To create a proper reference for ChatGPT or other AI models and software, follow the format below:

• Author: The author of the model is OpenAI.
• Date: Include the year of the version you used (e.g., 2023). Specific dates are not necessary.
• Title: The model name, "ChatGPT," serves as the title and should be italicized.
• Version: Include the version number, typically followed by the release date in parentheses.
• Source: Provide the URL that directly links to the source or model (e.g., https://chat.openai.com/chat). Do not repeat the publisher name when it is the same as the author.

Example:

OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat

When citing ChatGPT within your text, use the author-date format in parentheses, like so: (OpenAI, 2023). For narrative citations, you can write it as "OpenAI (2023)."

Adapted from: https://apastyle.apa.org/blog/how-to-cite-chatgpt

Plagiarism Concerns and ChatGPT: What Students Should Know

ChatGPT, the powerful AI language model, can be an incredibly useful tool for generating ideas, gathering information, and assisting with various aspects of your academic work. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential plagiarism concerns when using ChatGPT in your assignments and research projects.

When Does It Constitute Plagiarism?

Plagiarism occurs when you present someone else's work, ideas, or words as your own without proper attribution. While ChatGPT is a machine, not a human author, the content it generates can still be considered plagiarism if you don't use it correctly. Here are some plagiarism concerns to keep in mind:

1. Submitting ChatGPT's Responses as Your Own: If you use text generated by ChatGPT without proper citation or attribution, it's considered plagiarism. Even though ChatGPT is an AI, failing to give credit for the text it generates is academically dishonest.

2. Inadequate Paraphrasing: If you rely on ChatGPT to paraphrase existing content and it does so inadequately or too closely resembles the original, it may still be considered plagiarism.

3. Copying Text Without Verification: ChatGPT might provide information or content that is not always accurate or properly sourced. If you incorporate this content into your work without verifying its accuracy or authenticity, it can lead to unintentional plagiarism.

Guidelines May Vary

It's important to understand that each course and professor may have different guidelines and expectations regarding the use of AI tools like ChatGPT. Some instructors may encourage its use for brainstorming and research, while others may have strict limitations or even prohibit its use entirely.

Your Best Approach: Follow Course-Specific Guidelines

To avoid plagiarism concerns and ensure ethical academic conduct, always prioritize your course-specific guidelines and the instructions provided by your professors. If you have questions about whether and how you can use ChatGPT in a particular assignment or course, seek clarification directly from your instructor.

Remember that ChatGPT is a valuable resource when used responsibly and in accordance with your course's policies. By respecting your professors' guidelines and giving proper credit when necessary, you can harness the benefits of AI tools like ChatGPT while maintaining academic integrity.

Adapted from: https://getgenie.ai/how-to-avoid-plagiarism-with-ai-tools/