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Guidance for Researchers

Ethics > Generative AI >

Generative AI Research

Overall Principles for Generative AI Use

As Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its integration into our daily operations offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation, efficiency and enhanced communication. At Michigan State University (MSU), we are committed to leveraging these technologies in ways that align with our institutional values of collaboration, equity, excellence, integrity and respect. This guidance outlines our approach to utilizing generative AI tools to support research and creative activities while upholding our ethical standards.

Principles for AI in Research

These principles should be viewed as a collective set of high-level considerations rather than instructions for any specific AI application or use. For more specific guidance on the use of generative AI at MSU, please review the Interim Guidance on Data Uses and Risks of Generative AI and the Interim Guidance on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Research and Creative Activities.

1. Data Privacy and Ownership

In alignment with our commitment to honoring authorship, privacy and data governance, all information must be handled with care. Diligently evaluate the classification of data you are working with (e.g., public, confidential, research) and recognize that each category requires distinct handling protocols when utilizing generative AI. Data should only be entered into an AI system with a complete understanding of its compliance with appropriate security and privacy measures, and with the expressed consent of stakeholders and authors in cases where intellectual property is concerned.

Sourcing and Reliability

1. Vetting AI Tools

Before adopting any AI tool, it must be vetted for its reliability, security and alignment with MSU's ethical values. This includes consulting with information technology (IT) professionals and adhering to privacy, security policies and environmental responsibility. More information can be found in the IT Product/Solution Review.

Implementation

This guidance is a living document, subject to revision as AI technologies and research standards evolve. We encourage the MSU community to engage with AI responsibly, creatively and ethically.

 

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2. Quality, Integrity and Precisions

Users are responsible for the AI-generated content generated, ensuring it is updated and meets our highest accuracy standards. All AI-generated products should undergo thorough review to maintain the integrity and excellence of our work.

3. Understand Publication Expectations

Review requirements of journal publishers, reviewers and recipients of the final product, ensuring that work is being cited appropriately.

4. Equitable, Inclusivity and Ethical Use

AI users will prioritize creating outputs that are accessible to all, fostering an environment of equity and diversity. Users should strive to be thoughtful and critically reflective of AI biases to ensure fairness and non-discrimination in all AI-driven endeavors.

5. Maintaining Awareness

Users should commit to remaining up-to-date with AI technology developments and university guidelines to address emerging risks and improvements.

2. Documentation and Review

AI tools should be documented, including their purposes, the rationale for their selection and the outcomes they intend to achieve. This documentation will facilitate accountability and continuous improvement.