Large Language Model Policy

1. Introduction

We at Khatulistiwa Education Center acknowledge the potential of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI in supporting authors throughout the research and writing process. These technologies can enhance idea generation, accelerate research discovery, synthesize or analyze findings, refine language, and structure manuscripts.

While LLMs and generative AI present transformative opportunities, they cannot replace human creativity, critical thinking, or intellectual contributions. This policy outlines guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies by authors, reviewers, and editors in the scholarly publishing.

2. Permitted Uses of LLMs and Generative AI

Authors may use LLMs and AI tools to assist in specific aspects of manuscript preparation, including but not limited to:

Language Editing and Proofreading: To identify grammatical errors, correct spelling, and improve fluency.
Data Analysis: To analyze complex datasets and present results clearly and concisely.

3. Prohibited Uses of LLMs and Generative AI

Certain uses of LLMs and generative AI are not allowed, as they undermine the originality and ethical standards of scholarly work. These include:

Primary Content Generation: LLMs must not be used to create key sections of a manuscript, including the introduction, methodology, results, and conclusion. Authors are responsible for contributing original ideas and intellectual input.
Unethical Practices: AI tools must not be used to fabricate or manipulate data, produce fraudulent results, or engage in other unethical activities during manuscript preparation.

4. Recommendations for Responsible AI Usage

Authors who employ LLMs or generative AI during manuscript preparation should adhere to the following recommendations:

Verification: Review and validate all AI-generated content. The manuscript's accuracy, originality, and quality remain the authors' responsibility.
Transparency: Disclose any use of AI tools during manuscript preparation in the acknowledgments section, specifying the tasks for which they were used (e.g., language editing, plagiarism detection, or data analysis).
Acknowledgment: Appropriately acknowledge and cite the AI tools or software employed in the manuscript.

5. Ethical Considerations

Authors must follow ethical guidelines and maintain academic integrity when using LLMs or generative AI. Misuse of these tools, including copyright violations, plagiarism, or unethical practices, constitutes a breach of publication ethics and may result in corrective actions.

6. Editorial Review

All manuscripts, whether prepared with or without AI assistance, will be subjected to the same rigorous peer-review process. This ensures the evaluation of their scientific merit, originality, and adherence to ethical and academic standards.

7. Policy Review

This policy will be periodically reviewed and updated to reflect advances in AI technology and evolving best practices in scholarly publishing.