AI Tools for Scholarly Research: Home

https://infoguides.rit.edu/prf.php?id=59009e08-7cdb-11ed-9922-0ad758b798c3

Welcome

Welcome to the RIT Libraries InfoGuide on AI Tools for Scholarly Research!

This guide serves as an introduction to using AI tools for research purposes, as well as how to cite these tools. Please check back regularly as we update this guide with new information and tools to try.

RIT Libraries does not subscribe to any GenAI tools and services, nor do we endorse the use of any of these products. Researcher discretion is advised.  The use of these tools is at your own risk. 

Some library databases and platforms provide integrated GenAI and natural language processing to improve the user experience. RIT Libraries is not responsible for the efficacy of these products.

If you have questions about the use of GenAI tools for scholarly research or how our subscription databases and platforms may be using GenAI, send your questions to  libraryhelp@rit.edu or your college librarian.

 

Pros and Cons of AI Tools

Research Utilizing Prompt Engineering w/ ChatGPT, Bing, etc.

A method for gathering information with targeted, detailed queries.

Pros:

  • Explore topics and generate keywords
  • Gather information (depending on the tool)
  • Save time brainstorming
  • Can assist with creating project outlines
  • Broaden and diversify language/vocabulary

Cons:

  • Potential use for plagiarism/accidental plagiarism from unknown sources
  • Sometimes provides incorrect information/hallucinates sources
  • Bias due to crawling the web
  • Ethical concerns

Pros and Cons of AI Generated Content

AI-Generated Content

Materials created by machine - content created after a prompt or user input

Pros:

  • Quick and easy way to generate content (art, search terms, etc.)
  • Great way to practice your research skills and lateral reading
  • Continues to improve in quality of answers as more users use these tools

Cons:

  • Creates an additional step as all content must be verified and cited separately
  • Incorrect or misinformation - Accuracy limitations due to relying on patterns
  • Training data behind - only up to 2021 in certain programs

Edit this Guide

Log into Dashboard

Use of RIT resources is reserved for current RIT students, faculty and staff for academic and teaching purposes only.
Please contact your librarian with any questions.

Facebook icon  Twitter icon  Instagram icon  YouTube icon