1. Overview

This policy outlines the acceptable use of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the preparation, review, and publication of manuscripts submitted to Studies in Physics Teaching and Learning. It aligns with best practices established by Elsevier to uphold the integrity and transparency of scholarly communication.

2. For Authors

2.1 Acceptable Use

1. Authors may employ generative AI and AI-assisted tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Grammarly) to enhance the readability and language quality of their manuscripts.
2. Such tools should not be used to generate scientific content, interpret data, or draw conclusions.
3. The use of AI must be under human oversight, with authors critically evaluating and editing the output to ensure accuracy and originality.

2.2 Disclosure Requirements

Authors must disclose any use of generative AI or AI-assisted tools in their manuscript. A statement should be included in the "Declaration of Assistive Technologies in the Writing Process" section, specifying the tool used and its purpose. Example disclosure:

During the preparation of this work, the authors utilized [Tool Name] to enhance language clarity. The authors reviewed and edited the content to ensure accuracy and take full responsibility for the final manuscript.

2.3 Authorship Attribution

1. Generative AI tools cannot be credited as authors or co-authors.
2. Authorship implies accountability and the ability to take responsibility for the work, which AI tools cannot fulfill.

2.4 Use in Figures and Images

1. The use of generative AI to create or modify images, figures, or graphical abstracts is prohibited unless it is part of the research methodology.
2. If AI-generated images are integral to the research, authors must provide a detailed description in the methods section, including:
   1. The AI tool used (name, version, manufacturer).
   2. The process of generation or modification.
   3. Compliance with the tool's usage policies and proper attribution.

3. For Reviewers

1. Reviewers must not use generative AI tools to evaluate or summarize manuscripts, as this may compromise confidentiality and the integrity of the review process.
2. All assessments should be based on the reviewer's expertise without AI assistance.

4. For Editors

1. Editors are prohibited from using generative AI tools to make editorial decisions or to generate editorial content.
2. Editorial judgments should be based on human expertise to maintain the quality and integrity of the publication process.

5. Compliance and Accountability

1. Failure to disclose the use of generative AI tools or misuse of such technologies may result in the rejection of the manuscript or retraction of the published article.
2. Authors, reviewers, and editors are expected to adhere to this policy to uphold the ethical standards of SPTL.