Below are the key aspects using AI in your project:
- Transparency and Citation: Students must be transparent about the use of AI tools in their work, clearly documenting and citing them as resources, particularly if artificial intelligence is used. This includes citing graphics or images created by AI.
- Independent Research and Originality: The project should primarily reflect the student’s own independent research and be presented in their own words. AI should not be used inappropriately to present work that is not the student’s own, and cannot include fraudulent data or plagiarism.
- AI as a Resource, Not a Replacement: AI tools can serve as valuable resources for tasks like:
- Exploring potential topics.
- Initial searches for information.
- Confirming understanding of complex text.
- Checking writing for grammar and tone (but not for rewriting the content itself).
- Prohibited Uses: Students are explicitly prohibited from using AI to:
- Write or create the project for you.
- Generate answers or complete the project without proper citation or passing off AI-generated content as one’s own.
- Critical Thinking and Verification: Students are responsible for the accuracy of their submissions and must verify any information generated by AI tools with reliable sources.
- Adherence to Academic Integrity: Students are expected to uphold the principles of academic integrity, ensuring their use of AI aligns with ethical standards and does not constitute plagiarism or cheating.
- Seeking Guidance: If in doubt about the appropriate use of AI tools, students should consult with their teachers or mentors.
In essence, WSSEF and ISEF allows the use of AI as a tool to enhance the research process, but emphasizes responsible, ethical, and transparent use, ensuring the student’s own work and critical thinking remain central to the project.