Acceptable Use of Artificial Intelligence in Research Projects

Vancouver Island Regional Science Fair

This document serves as a guideline for the appropriate use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) when conducting scientific research. AI is a useful tool that can aid you in your project. While current AI tools, such as ChatGPT, can do all kinds of tasks, it’s important to remember that these tools are still being developed, aren’t always accurate, and your project should be completed by you!

Below is a quick reference for where AI use is appropriate. If you are uncertain, check with your supervisor (teacher or parent).

	Generating Data	Data must be generated by you as part of your research project. AI use is not permitted.
	Results Figures Graphs	Images that are part of your project, such as graphs showing results or figures showing your experimental setup, should be designed and created by you. AI use is not permitted.
	Writing	All writing and text on your poster should be in your own words. AI use is not permitted.
	Citation Generation	AI is not always accurate, and you should check with your supervisor before using AI for this purpose. If you and your supervisor agree to use AI, you MUST check it for accuracy and reliability, and you MUST cite the AI tool you used.
	Referencing	AI is not always accurate, and you should check with your supervisor before using AI for this purpose. If you and your supervisor agree to use AI, you MUST check it for accuracy and you MUST cite the AI tool you used.
	Poster Design	Using AI for making your poster look nice (general design elements only) is acceptable. If you use AI for design purposes, you MUST cite the AI tool you used.