Before using GenAI, you should ensure that:
- You know whether or not it is permitted (or required) for your assignment or research.
- You understand the limitations and risks of using GenAI.
- Your assignment/research remains your own work.
GenAI can be a useful starting point to gather background information on a topic, but be aware that:
- GenAI produces information that may be inaccurate, biased, or outdated.
- GenAI is not an original source of information: it reproduces information from sources which are often unidentified.
- GenAI may fabricate quotations and citations. DO NOT TRUST ANY REFERENCES IT GIVES YOU WITHOUT CHECKING!
- It is always best to refer to original and credible sources of information.
If you do choose to use GenAI tools, you must always:
- Critically evaluate any output it produces.
- Carefully check any quotations or citations it creates.
- Correctly document your use of the tools so that it can be appropriately acknowledged.
- Retain drafts of your work so you can evidence your process.
