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AI and Higher Education

This guide explores the latest developments in artificial intelligence, including large language models (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Bing) and multimodal models that integrate text, images, and other data types. Learn how these technologies are transforming hi

Citing AI Resources and Upholding Academic Integrity

Using AI tools like ChatGPT in academic work requires careful consideration to maintain the integrity of your scholarly endeavors. This page provides guidance on how to ethically and effectively cite AI tools in alignment with Carlow University’s Academic Integrity Policy, ensuring transparency and proper attribution in your research and writing.

Why Cite AI Tools?

Citing AI tools like ChatGPT is not just a formal requirement—it's a critical practice for maintaining academic honesty and giving proper credit. When AI tools are used to assist in generating ideas or content, acknowledging their contribution is important for several reasons:

  • Transparency: Clearly showing how and where AI was used helps maintain openness in your academic work.
  • Academic Integrity: Proper citation aligns with the University’s standards of academic honesty, which are foundational to your scholarly reputation.
  • Accountability: Citing allows others to trace the use of AI tools and assess their impact on your work.

How to Cite AI Tools

Different citation styles require specific formats for citing AI tools. Below are examples for citing ChatGPT in commonly used citation styles:

APA Style:

MLA Style:

Chicago Style (Author-Date):

Chicago Style (Notes-Bibliography):

Ethical Use and Academic Integrity

Carlow University places a strong emphasis on ethical academic practices. When using AI tools, it is crucial to ensure that they are used responsibly and in accordance with the following guidelines:

  • Transparency: Always acknowledge the use of AI tools by citing them appropriately in both in-text citations and reference lists.
  • Originality: Use AI tools as a supplement to your own research and writing, not as a replacement. Your work should reflect your original thought and contribution.
  • Ethical Guidelines: Follow any specific guidelines provided by your instructors or courses regarding the use of AI in assignments.

A Note on Reliability

AI tools like ChatGPT typically do not access verified databases or peer-reviewed literature in their default state. While some versions of AI models can browse the live web or access scholarly resources, the information they generate may not always be accurate or reliable. The guiding principle should be "trust but verify" — always cross-check any content generated by AI with authoritative, peer-reviewed sources before including it in your academic work.

Additional Resources

Maintaining the principles of academic integrity when using AI ensures that your scholarly contributions are both ethical and credible.