Use of AI

Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Last Updated: [Insert Date]

M.C.E. Society Publications, operating under Abeda Inamdar Senior College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, is committed to maintaining ethical and transparent standards in publishing. This policy outlines the acceptable and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the processes of research, authorship, peer review, and editorial management.

1. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

  • Authors submitting manuscripts.
  • Reviewers and editors involved in the peer-review process.
  • Users interacting with tools or platforms on the official website (https://mcesocietypublication.com/).

It governs the use of AI tools such as language models, data analysis software, plagiarism detection systems, and automated editorial tools.

2. Acceptable Use of AI by Authors

Authors may use AI tools for certain tasks, provided they maintain responsibility for the integrity and originality of their submissions.

a. Permissible Uses

  • Language and Grammar Improvement: Authors may use AI tools like grammar checkers or language enhancers to refine their manuscript.
  • Data Analysis: AI can be used for analyzing data, provided the methods and tools used are clearly disclosed in the manuscript.
  • Figure and Table Creation: AI may assist in generating visualizations, provided the original data sources are accurate and cited.

b. Restrictions

  • AI tools must not be used to generate the substantive content of the manuscript (e.g., generating text, ideas, or findings).
  • Authors must not use AI to fabricate or manipulate data, images, or results.
  • Plagiarism detection tools should be used ethically, with acknowledgment of their role.

c. Disclosure

  • Authors must disclose any use of AI tools in their work, including the specific tools used and their purpose, within the manuscript or submission cover letter.

3. Ethical Use of AI in Peer Review

Reviewers are encouraged to use AI tools to support their review process responsibly.

a. Permissible Uses

  • AI tools may assist in:
    • Detecting plagiarism or identifying duplicate content.
    • Evaluating technical language accuracy or consistency.
    • Providing supplementary insights into data analysis or methodologies.

b. Restrictions

  • Reviewers must not delegate their decision-making responsibilities to AI tools.
  • AI-generated reports should not replace the reviewer's personal judgment or feedback.

c. Confidentiality

  • AI tools used during the peer review process must ensure the confidentiality of manuscript content.

4. Editorial Use of AI

Editors may employ AI to enhance the efficiency of journal management while adhering to ethical guidelines.

a. Permissible Uses

  • Manuscript screening for plagiarism, language quality, or technical compliance.
  • Automating administrative tasks, such as assigning reviewers or managing correspondence.
  • Data-driven insights for improving journal workflows.

b. Restrictions

  • Decisions on manuscript acceptance, rejection, or revision must not be automated. Editors are responsible for making all final decisions.
  • Editors must verify AI-generated outputs for accuracy and fairness.

5. Prohibited Uses of AI

To maintain the integrity of the publication process, the following uses of AI are prohibited:

  1. Fabrication or falsification of data, research findings, or citations.
  2. Concealing or failing to disclose the use of AI in any aspect of research or publication.
  3. Using AI to bypass plagiarism detection systems.

6. Transparency and Disclosure

  • Authors, reviewers, and editors must disclose the use of AI tools in their respective roles.
  • AI-related disclosures must include:
    • Name of the AI tool(s) used.
    • Purpose and extent of use.
    • Any potential limitations or biases associated with the tool.

7. Data Privacy and Security

M.C.E. Society Publications ensures that AI tools used for internal processes comply with data protection regulations. Manuscripts, reviewer reports, and author data processed by AI tools remain confidential and secure.

8. Consequences of Misuse

Any misuse of AI tools or violation of this policy will be addressed promptly. Consequences may include:

  • Rejection of the manuscript.
  • Retraction of published work.
  • Reporting of ethical violations to the author’s institution or funding agency.
  • Temporary or permanent ban from future submissions.

9. Commitment to Global Standards

This policy aligns with:

  • Guidelines from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).
  • Global standards for responsible AI use, including principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability.

10. Policy Updates

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure alignment with technological advancements and ethical standards. Updates will be communicated on the website (https://mcesocietypublication.com/).

11. Contact Us

For questions or clarifications regarding this policy, please contact:

M.C.E. Society Publications
Abeda Inamdar Senior College of Arts, Science, and Commerce
Azam Campus, Camp, Pune, Maharashtra, India – 411001
Email: journal@mcesocietypublication.com
Phone: +91 00000 00000

By adhering to this policy, M.C.E. Society Publications ensures the ethical and transparent use of AI in scholarly communication while upholding the integrity of academic research.