GenAI: responsible use in research

Before you begin

Before you begin your research, it is important to know that the principles of research integrity are vital to responsible use of generative AI.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (genAI) is powerful technology that employs algorithms to identify patterns in large datasets and makes use of these patterns to generate new content in a range of formats.

GenAI has the potential to streamline aspects of research. There are many emerging tools useful in different stages of the research lifecycle, and it is important for researchers and research students to understand the strengths, limitations and ethical considerations of these tools. It is also important to consider the licences or terms of use of any genAI tool. This can outline ownership of content and determine what you can do with the output of the tool.

The current Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2018 is framed around eight principles which are useful in determining whether your proposed use case is appropriate. The principles are: 

• Honesty
• Rigour
• Transparency
• Fairness
• Respect
• Recognition
• Accountability
• Promotion of responsible research

The Code provides specific guidelines for authorship accountability, and the privacy and security of data, each of which must be considered when using genAI tools.

Researchers need to take considerable care when choosing to upload information into the interfaces of commercial genAI tools, and take care not to breach any ethical and legal obligations.

It is never appropriate to submit the following categories of data into commercial genAI products: 

• Third party copyrighted materials or material that you do not own or manage the rights to. 
• Other confidential or sensitive data or material. 
• Human research data. 
• Private or personal information.

Acknowledging use of genAI

Acknowledging use of genAI tools is part of responsible research. When acknowledging use of genAI, include the tool, how it was used and the prompts used.  Some tools include a method for acknowledging their usage, and some referencing styles may have a specific format to follow.

For example, Grammarly is a genAI writing tool that includes guidance on acknowledging use of this tool.

APA reference example

Drag the slider left and right to discover the names for the different parts of this reference.

Text accessible version

Deakin context

Deakin University has developed guidelines for using commercial generative AI tools in research.

Research processes can benefit from genAI applications within operating principles and parameters. Researchers undertaking research can legitimately use genAI tools within the scope of relevant policies and guidelines, and this also applies to HDR students with their research.

There are restrictions on HDR students and their theses. Using genAI in thesis preparation is limited to copyediting and proofreading purposes only, and use of genAI to create or manipulate images is prohibited unless fully disclosed as part of the research methodology.

Using genAI to substantially write or redraft text to be included in a thesis is considered a breach of the Higher Degree by Research Policy, as students are required to declare submitted work as their own. 

At Deakin, there are several high profile genAI projects. The Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A2I2) works at the cutting edge to develop AI solutions to wicked problems. 

GenAI is has the potential to transform how research is conducted, however not all tools are created equal, and human sense-making is an important aspect of using genAI.

The University, grant bodies, publishers and other governing bodies develop policies and guidelines for the use of genAI in research. It is important for researchers to be aware of and to comply with these. Deakin has released guidelines for the use of commercial generative AI in research which should be reviewed ahead of using genAI tools in research.  

This guide will provide case scenarios of both responsible use and cautionary examples of genAI use in research. It highlights appropriate safeguards when working with genAI.