Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy

At the Journal of sport science technology and physical activities, we acknowledge the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in academic research and writing. We consider these tools as valuable aids for researchers to explore ideas, analyze results, accelerate discoveries, refine language, and better organize manuscripts.

Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI tools can significantly enhance research workflows, but they do not replace human creativity, judgment, or critical thinking. Our AI policy aims to guide authors, reviewers, and editors in making informed and ethical decisions when using such technologies.

For Authors

AI as a Support Tool
Many authors use AI tools to improve writing. Tools that assist with grammar, style, clarity, or structure such as language enhancers are considered supportive AI and do not require formal disclosure. Authors remain fully responsible for the accuracy, originality, and scholarly integrity of their submissions.

Generative AI Use
If an AI tool is used to generate any part of the manuscripte.g., drafting text, generating references, or producing images this must be explicitly disclosed upon submission. Authors must cite original, verifiable sources rather than the AI tool itself.

If a manuscript is partially or fully generated using AI, it must be indicated so that the editorial team can assess the implications. Authors using AI in this manner must:

  • Clearly state which AI tool or model was used and for what purpose (in the methodology or acknowledgements section).
  • Verify all AI-generated content for factual accuracy, proper citations, and potential biases or errors.
  • Ensure that no plagiarism occurs by cross-checking AI-generated content with original sources.
  • Avoid fabricated citations or information and validate all claims before submission.

Important Note: AI tools such as ChatGPT should not be listed as authors. Using AI is not grounds for automatic rejection, but failure to disclose its use or irresponsible use, e.g., submitting false or plagiarized content can lead to rejection at any stage of the editorial process.

For Reviewers and Editors

Using AI in editorial work raises confidentiality and intellectual property concerns, as many LLMs learn from user input and may inadvertently reuse confidential content.

AI Assistance for Reviewers
Reviewers may use AI to improve clarity or structure in their reviews, but they remain accountable for ensuring that the review is accurate, constructive, and original.

For Editors
Editors are responsible for the journal’s content integrity. They may use AI for administrative tasks, such as finding potential reviewers, but must not use AI tools like ChatGPT to write editorial decisions or summaries of unpublished work.

Inappropriate or Undisclosed AI Use
If a reviewer or editor suspects improper or undisclosed AI use in a submission or review, they must inform the editorial team. The Journal of Physical and Sports Activities Sciences and Technologies, in collaboration with its editorial board, will investigate such concerns following COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines and internal policies.