Generative AI and AI-Assisted Technologies

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy governs the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and AI-assisted technologies in the creation, submission, review, and publication of scholarly content. It applies to all manuscripts submitted to the International Research Journal of Scientific Studies (“Journal”) and is intended to uphold academic integrity, transparency, and accountability.

2. Definition of AI Tools

For the purposes of this policy, “AI tools” include but are not limited to:
✳️ Generative language models (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini)
✳️ AI-based writing assistants and grammar checkers
✳️ Code generation platforms
✳️Data analysis and visualization tools powered by machine learning
✳️ AI-assisted image creation or enhancement software

3. Permissible Use of AI Tools

Authors may use AI tools for the following purposes, provided proper disclosure is made:
✅ Language editing: Grammar correction, clarity improvement, and translation
✅ Data processing: Statistical modeling, coding, or visualization
✅ Formatting: Reference management, layout assistance, or template adaptation
✅ Image enhancement: Non-substantive improvements to figures or diagrams
All outputs must be critically reviewed and verified by the author(s). The use of AI must not replace human intellectual contribution.

4. Prohibited Use of AI Tools

The following uses are strictly prohibited:
❌ Fabrication of data, citations, or references
❌ Generation of entire manuscripts without meaningful human oversight
❌ Use of AI to simulate peer review or impersonate reviewers
❌ Submission of AI-generated content as original research without disclosure
❌ Plagiarism or unauthorized reproduction of third-party content via AI tools
❌ Violations may result in rejection, retraction, or notification to affiliated institutions.

5. Disclosure Requirements

Authors must disclose any use of generative AI tools in the preparation of their manuscript. This includes:
✅ The name of the tool(s) used
✅ The specific purpose (e.g., grammar editing, code generation)
✅ A statement of author responsibility for the final content
Example Disclosure (to be included in Acknowledgments or Author Contributions):
“The authors used [Tool Name] to assist with [e.g., language editing, data visualization]. All content was reviewed and verified by the authors, who take full responsibility for the integrity and accuracy of the manuscript.”

6. Authorship and Accountability

AI tools cannot be listed as authors. Authorship is reserved for individuals who:
✳️ Made substantial intellectual contributions
✳️ Approved the final version of the manuscript
✳️ Can take public responsibility for the work
Authors remain fully accountable for all content submitted, regardless of AI involvement.

7. Editorial and Peer Review Use

Editors and reviewers may use AI tools to assist with:
✅ Language clarity in editorial decisions
✅ Plagiarism detection and technical checks
✅ Summarizing or organizing reviewer notes
However, editorial decisions must be made by qualified human experts. Reviewers must not use AI to generate review reports without disclosure.

8. Data Privacy and Confidentiality

Authors, reviewers, and editors must not input confidential manuscript content into public AI platforms unless:
✳️ The platform guarantees data privacy and non-retention
✳️ Explicit consent has been obtained from all relevant parties
Use of AI tools must comply with applicable data protection laws, including GDPR and relevant institutional policies.

9. Policy Enforcement and Updates

The Journal reserves the right to:
✅ Request clarification or documentation regarding AI usage
❌ Reject or retract manuscripts that violate this policy
❄️ Update this policy in response to technological, ethical, or legal developments

10. Contact and Queries

For questions regarding this policy or to report potential violations, please contact: irjss.editor@gmail.com