Skip to Main Content
John B. Coleman Library Ask A Librarian

Artificial Intelligence: The ABCs of AI: Navigating Generative AI in Research: Opportunities and Challenges

This topic guide compiles knowledge about artificial intelligence (AI), from how it can be used as a tool for academic research to the ethical implications of its use. This guide will feature resources to assist with developing and using AI technology.

Benefits and Challenges of Generative AI

Idea Generation

AI assists in structuring ideas and enhancing critical thinking processes.

Research Protection

Questions remain about how to safeguard original research when using AI tools.

Bias Detection

Researchers must learn to identify and mitigate AI-generated bias.

Source Verification

Determining the reliability of AI-generated information remains challenging.

The Power of Prompt Engineering

Prompt engineering significantly impacts research outcomes. Through experimentation, we've found that detailed, specific prompts consistently produce more valuable results.

 

Precise Results

Well-crafted prompts yield more accurate information.

Structured Queries

Organized prompts lead to better organized responses.

Basic Prompts

Simple queries often produce generic, less useful results.

Academic Integrity Considerations

Proper Citation

Acknowledge AI tools as sources in research.

Verification

Cross-check AI-generated information with reliable sources.

Critical Review

Evaluate and refine AI outputs before incorporating them.

Original Thinking

Use AI as a supplement, not a replacement for analysis.

Research Process

Think: What do you want to create or know?

Engineer: Every prompt needs a   ACTION + SUBJECT + TOPIC/ REASON + DETAIL + CITE

Experiment: Try it again until you get exactly what you want.

CREATE + A PAPER OUTLINE + FOR A US GOVERNMENT COLLEGE COURSE + EVALUATE PRIMARY RESOURCES ABOUT POLITICAL CARTOONS + LIST AND PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE INFORMATION GIVEN

Citing AI in Academic Work

CITATIONS  FOR  GENERATIVE  AI

  1. Identify the Tool

    Name the specific AI tool used (e.g., ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot).

  2. Document the Prompt

    Record the exact prompt used to generate the information.

  3. Note the Version

    Include the model version and access date.

  4. Explain Usage

    Clarify how AI contributed to your research process.

John B. Coleman Library
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 519, MS 1040, Prairie View, Texas 77446
Physical Address: L.W. Minor St. / University Drive, Prairie View, Texas 77446
Reference: (936) 261-1535, Circulation: (936) 261-1542
Email: askalibrarian@pvamu.edu

 Library Hours