It is very tempting to use a Gen AI tool like ChatGPT or CoPilot, for example, to generate text and answers to a question. However, there are a number of critical considerations that you should think about before doing this. Gen AI can produce information or media that is inaccurate, biased, or outdated. Gen AI tools are not databases of knowledge full of facts; they are using predictive statistics to create plausible responses to a question. Consequently, this may provide inaccurate and false information.

• This false information is often referred to as hallucinations, which can include unintentionally false quotations and citations. It can also be used intentionally to create deep fakes (convincing but misleading images or audio-visual recordings). It is very important to check the reliability of all Gen AI output.
• AI tools learn from data which may contain historical and societal biases. Therefore, AI tools can reflect biases present in the data they were trained on. Cross-check information using diverse reputable sources and edit AI generated outputs to ensure inclusive and fair language.
• Another critical consideration with Gen AI is one of currency - is the AI tool searching old training data or is it now connecting to more recent sources?

Do not rely on AI-generated content as a key source for your academic studies. Please refer to our Subject Guides for specific sources for good quality academic resources in your subject area.

In this guide we have already discussed the ethical considerations of academic integrity and the issues around inherent human bias in AI tools. We would also like to draw your attention to the following ethical considerations.

Privacy 

Privacy and confidentiality are key concerns when using Gen AI tools.

Many of these tools store and analyse user inputs. To protect your privacy and the privacy of others: 

• Avoid inputting personal, confidential, or sensitive data. 

• Seek permission before using AI tools to record, transcribe or translate any participants of online or in-person discussions and events.    

• Check the privacy policies of any Gen AI tool before use. Some AI tools have committed to not storing user's prompts.

Environmental Impact

AI tools, especially large language models like Gen AI tools, require vast amounts of energy to train and operate, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental impact.

• When using an AI tool, consider it's necessity. Could a traditional research method be just as useful?

• Refine your search prompts to minimise excessive processing and choose AI services committed to more sustainable practices.

• Balancing convenience with environmental responsibility can help to reduce the digital carbon footprint while maintaining ethical AI use.