ShipGPT: AI-Powered Research with Academic Integrity
Shippensburg University professors require students to conduct research using the university library. However, many students are resorting to plagiarism through ChatGPT and search engines like Google. To address this, we propose ShipGPT—a custom AI research assistant powered by Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).

by Dr. Mark Lennon

What is ShipGPT?
Exclusive Access
ShipGPT is an AI portal exclusively accessible to students and faculty via university credentials.
Integrated Databases
Unlike generic AI models, ShipGPT integrates directly with library databases, ensuring responses are grounded in peer-reviewed research.
Why ShipGPT?

1

Accurate
ShipGPT ensures that responses are grounded in peer-reviewed research.

2

Citable
ShipGPT provides proper references for academic work.

3

Verifiable
ShipGPT pulls directly from authorized sources.
Why Now?
Academic Integrity
Several universities have launched similar initiatives to safeguard academic integrity.
AI-Driven Learning
ShipGPT enhances AI-driven learning.
Leadership
By adopting ShipGPT, Shippensburg University can lead in responsible AI integration.
Original Research
ShipGPT fosters original student research.
Key Innovation
Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)
What is it?
RAG is an AI technology that improves responses by retrieving relevant information from external databases before generating an answer. Unlike traditional AI models that rely only on pre-trained data, RAG dynamically pulls real-time, authoritative sources—such as academic papers or library databases—to ensure accurate, citable, and up-to-date responses.
Who Uses It?
Columbia University Libraries have augmented their discovery systems by integrating AI and large language models (LLMs) using RAG.
University of São Paulo (USP) has developed a RAG-based virtual assistant tailored to address the university's institutional and regulatory information.
Industry Support
Snowflake
Leading tech companies like Snowflake are offering sponsorship opportunities.
Other Companies
Other companies like Amazon, Google, and OpenAI are supporting AI-powered education solutions
Join the Movement!

1

Equip Students
Let's equip students with ethical AI tools that promote learning.

2

Avoid Shortcuts
ShipGPT helps students avoid using shortcuts, like plagiarism.
ShipGPT: Empowering Students with Ethical AI Tools
Accessible
ShipGPT is accessible to all students and faculty.
Integrated
ShipGPT is integrated with university library databases.
Accurate
ShipGPT provides accurate and reliable research information.
Ethical
ShipGPT encourages ethical research practices.
Next Steps
We encourage you to learn more about ShipGPT and its potential benefits. Contact us today to discuss how we can collaborate to bring this innovative research tool to Shippensburg University.