Citing Generative AI in your coursework depends on the context in which you use information or responses generated by the model. Here are some guidelines to help you decide when to cite Generative AI:
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Conversations and Exchanges: If you're using a conversation with ChatGPT or other AI as part of your coursework, particularly in fields like linguistics, artificial intelligence, or human-computer interaction, it's a good idea to cite the interaction as a form of data or example.
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Using it as a Tool: If you're drawing upon ideas, concepts, or insights generated by AI that contribute to your coursework, it's advisable to acknowledge the source. Even if the model is used as a tool for brainstorming, it's important to recognize its influence on your work.
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Negative Results or Examples: If you're discussing limitations, errors, or controversial responses generated by AI, you should still cite the model as the source of those examples to provide context.
In most cases, you will be citing Generative AI tools when you are writing ABOUT those tools. It should not use Generative AI as a source of information, as it is has unpredictable quality, limited knowledge, and lacks contextual understanding. As mentioned many times in this guide, it does NOT know fact from fiction and is unable to fact check its own generated text.
While ChatGPT can certainly be a valuable tool for research and brainstorming, it's generally best to use it as a supplementary source and to rely on reputable, peer-reviewed sources for the primary content of your academic papers. If you do find useful information in ChatGPT's responses, consider using it as a starting point to identify relevant keywords and concepts that you can then research in more reliable and credible sources.
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