Navigating the AI frontier: Should we fear ChatGPT use in higher education and scientific research? Finding a middle ground through guiding principles and practical applications

Abstract

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence-based chatbots, including ChatGPT, in various sectors has raised concerns about their implications in higher education and scientific research. While the academic world aims to foster critical thinking and produce reliable research, the use of chatbots has elicited resistance from some academics due to fears of inaccuracies. In this paper, we extensively examine this phenomenon in higher education and scientific research, seeking to understand its practical applications, limitations, and potential risks. We investigated how ChatGPT is currently being used by academia, young researchers, and students. We also identified its areas of application and conducted trials by engaging ChatGPT, with transcripts included in the paper. Based on our findings, we discuss the results in the context of the needs in higher education and scientific research, presenting guidelines for responsible adoption. We distinguish positive use cases, areas requiring caution, explicit limitations of ChatGPT, and cases of unethical use. Importantly, we view ChatGPT as a valuable technological innovation but emphasize the necessity for thoughtful and responsible implementation. While we do not consider its use inherently deceitful, consistent, and shared guidelines are essential to ensure its ethical and effective application.