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Generative AI: ChatGPT Speaks

AI in Higher Education Video of the Month

Generating a List of Possible Sources with ChatGPT

An example of ChatGPT "hallucinating" made-up sources when prompted to provide a list of research articles on a topic. While seeing "Jane Doe" and "John Smith" as the first two authors listed is an easy tip-off that these results might be problematic, the rest of each citation seems at first glance to be plausible, even though none of these journals exist in reality, let alone the articles purported to be published in them. 

ChatGPT on Plagiarism

An example of ChatGPT-generated content, produced in response to the prompt: "What would you say to students who want to use ChatGPT to write their papers for them?" MLA citation included below. 

As an AI language model, ChatGPT is designed to generate human-like responses to a wide range of questions and prompts. While it can be a helpful tool for students to use for research and writing support, it should not be used to write papers for them.

Using ChatGPT to write papers for students would be considered plagiarism, which is a serious academic offense that can result in severe consequences, such as failing the assignment or even being expelled from the college. Additionally, using ChatGPT in this way would not benefit the student's learning or development of critical thinking and writing skills.

Instead, students should use ChatGPT as a tool to assist them in their research and writing processes. They can use it to generate ideas, gather information, and clarify concepts. However, they should always make sure to cite any sources they use and write their papers in their own words, using ChatGPT only as a starting point or support.

Ultimately, the best way for students to succeed academically is through their own hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning. While ChatGPT can be a helpful tool, it should never be used as a shortcut or a substitute for their own efforts.

 

“What would you say to students who want to use ChatGPT to write their papers for them?'" prompt. ChatGPT, 3 May version, OpenAI, 11 May 2023, chat.openai.com/chat.


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