AI-Tools for Literature Research
Specialized AI tools are also available for searching scientific literature. It is important to assess which tool can be helpful for one's own search, as coverage can vary significantly depending on the field of study. A look at the data foundation is essential. Additionally, costs and registration requirements should be considered, although most tools offer usable free versions.
A comprehensive list of literature research tools is available from the University Library in Tübingen.
ChatGPT and Literature Research
ChatGPT is a generative AI, more specifically a language model that is trained to create texts and imitate human communication.
It is important to know that ChatGPT is not a knowledge model. It does not work with facts and knowledge, but uses statistical probabilities to arrange words in such a way that a meaningful text is created.
What ChatGPT can do?
- Writing poetry
- Formulating e-mails
- Translating text
- Summarizing text
- Structuring
- Collecting ideas
- Programming
What ChatGPT cannot do?
- Knowledge of facts
- Literature research
- Assessment/evaluation
ChatGPT can be a good support for literature research. It can help to identify suitable search terms, find synonyms and link them together.
Prompting
The prompt is the work instruction to the AI. The more precisely it is formulated, the better the result. There are various ways in which prompts can be designed, as a one-off request or as a conversation.
Some helpful tips for successful prompts:
- Define a role for the AI: You are an environmental scientist, ... a teacher of philosophy, ... an expert in medieval history ...
- Formulate a task: what exactly is to be done, a brainstorming session, a structure for a presentation on topic x, a concept for a lesson or a congratulatory card for passing an exam
- Provide context: Framework conditions, purpose, target group
- Define the form of the output: Table with three columns, bullet points, a text with a maximum of 100 words ...
- Ask the AI if it needs more information and refine the result if it is not yet satisfactory.
Although AI offers numerous opportunities and possibilities, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects and risks. When dealing with AI technologies, certain aspects should be taken into account in order to be able to act responsibly and in an informed manner. You can find out more here.