Guidance on Generative AI
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Generative artificial intelligence technologies (e.g., Dall-E, ChatGPT) use machine learning algorithms to collect data, monitor actions and interactions and respond to further inputs and feedback in order to fine tune their engines. Many of us have been using AI-based tools, such as Google Maps, predictive text or Grammarly, in everyday life for years.
The quality and validity of outputs from AI tools such as ChatGPT can be highly variable, depending on the prompt it has been given and the way the algorithms have been trained. Academic users have reported that these tools often falsify references and make-up quotes which aren’t always easily detectable and clearly compromise any work using this content. AI tools have also been criticised for creating overly generalised responses.
Monash University’s General Position
The University acknowledges emerging Generative AI technologies offer exciting opportunities for enhancing research and driving innovation. The nature of rapidly evolving Generative AI technologies require assessment and risk mitigation to ensure ongoing responsible and ethical use of AI to support research excellence. The University’s Artificial Intelligence Operations Policy and Procedure set out the principles for responsible use of AI at Monash.
Monash University expects that all Generative AI use in research complies with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, including the Supplementary Guides supporting implementation of the Code and the ARC Research Integrity Policy.
Use of Generative AI in Research Training
Responsible Use of Generative AI in Research Training by HDR Supervisors
HDR Supervisors should familiarise themselves with the Guidance on the Use of Generative AI in Research published by Monash Office of Research Ethics and Integrity and familiarise themselves with the Artificial Intelligence Operations Policy and Procedure. They should ensure the relevant principles and risks are carefully considered and conveyed to their HDR students in providing research training.
Responsible Use of Generative AI in Research Studies by HDR Students
HDR Students should discuss with, and seek guidance from, their supervisors on any intended use of Generative AI and how they can best acknowledge and cite its use in their work.
Students will be asked about their use of Generative AI in their research at each progress management review milestone and will be required to confirm they have used Generative AI in ways that are consistent with Monash policies and guidance and have made due acknowledgement when used.
For the purposes of thesis submission, a series of questions about use of Generative AI are included thesis submission on-line form, and the thesis preliminary pages will prompt students and supervisors to acknowledge any Generative AI use.
Students are encouraged to read the Guidance on the Use of Generative AI in Research published by Monash Office of Research Ethics and Integrity and familiarise themselves with the Artificial Intelligence Operations Policy and Procedure.
Further resources on acknowledging the use of Generative AI can be found on Monash Learn HQ.
Other Useful Resources:
- Monash University’s Artificial Intelligence Operations Policy and Procedure
- AI at Monash
- Guidance for the use of Generative AI in academic research
- Graduate Research AI Capability and Engagement Strategy (GRAICE) - staff and current students only, login required
- TEQSA - Using generative AI in research: 10 Tips
- TEQSA - Gen AI strategies for research training: Emerging practice
- ACGR - Guidelines for Generative Artificial Intelligence Use in Graduate Research Training
Use of Generative AI in Thesis Examination
No Use of Generative AI in Thesis Examination by Thesis Examiners
All thesis examiners are advised of the University’s position on encouraging responsible use of Generative AI that complies with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research. In addition, they are made aware of the requirements for students in relation to AI, including the responsible conduct of research and the declaration and acknowledgement of any use of AI technologies in their research.
Thesis examiners should appropriately consider all relevant declarations and acknowledgements concerning the use Generative AI in reviewing and examining students’ thesis submissions.
To preserve the confidentiality of thesis examination, examiners are not permitted to use Generative AI technologies (such as ChatGPT) during the thesis examination process to support, prepare or write their examiners’ report.
