Using AI to Search Academic Literature: Insights from a CIVICA AI workshop for PhD researchers
03-12-2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming academic research, as highlighted at our recent CIVICA workshop. The event, organised by the Hertie School PhD Office, gave PhD researchers from across the CIVICA network the opportunity to showcase useful AI research tools and share first-hand experiences. The strong interest in AI tools at the event showed how relevant this topic is for researchers everywhere.
Insights from Dr. Christopher Landes, Director of Library and Information Services at the Hertie School.
Academic libraries: From the “OPAC” to AI search systems
Academic libraries have a key role to play in this transformation by promoting AI literacy, offering guidance, ensuring academic integrity and providing AI-based services. We want to help researchers use these tools responsibly, while remaining critical of their limitations. Search engines have come a long way in academic research. The OPAC, the earliest tool, allowed precise searches using specific syntax. Discovery systems followed, offering a Google-like experience but often producing overwhelming results lists. Now, AI-powered search engines such as Semantic Scholar analyse semantic structure and context to deliver potentially more relevant results. These tools are good at highlighting connections between research, but they can miss important sources, focus on English-language content, and reinforce existing biases in research visibility.
Best Practices for using AI search systems
To navigate these complexities, researchers can adopt several best practices when using AI tools for searching academic literature:
Exploring the potential of AI in research
AI in academic research poses challenges that no institution can handle alone. By working together through the CIVICA network, we can share insights, address risks and ensure the responsible use of AI. Collaboration helps us to remain innovative while maintaining academic integrity, ensuring that AI becomes a valuable tool for all social science researchers. Libraries will continue to be a trusted partner to researchers, providing the tools and knowledge needed to navigate this exciting new landscape.