Generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology is developing quickly. Tools like ChatGPT, Elicit, Research Rabbit, and others are neither good nor bad when it comes to finding and using information. They present a new way in which we can interact with information while still using our information literacy skills. This guide is intended to help HFU students, faculty, and staff critically engage with generative AI tools with a focus on how they intersect with information literacy.
Information Literacy & AI
Information literacy helps students locate, evaluate, and utilize information to further their learning. The American Library Association's Framework for Information Literacy in Higher Education provides us a way to evaluate information generated via AI tools (2023). In higher education, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on information literacy has become increasingly significant. AI algorithms have the potential to enhance information access, streamline research processes, and improve data analysis. AI can assist students determine authority and evaluate sources, view information creation as an iterative process, and view researching as strategic exploration and inquiry as the Framework states (American Library Association, 2023).
However, the integration of AI and information literacy also raises concerns regarding algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the need for critical thinking. It is crucial for individuals to develop a balanced understanding of AI capabilities and limitations, enabling them to effectively utilize AI tools while exercising discernment and critical evaluation of the information AI systems provide. Ultimately, combining the power of AI with information literacy skills empowers individuals to make informed decisions, engage in critical analysis, and contribute meaningfully to the global academic conversation.
"Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education", American Library Association, February 9, 2015. http://www.ala.org/acrl/standards/ilframework (Accessed June 28, 2023). Document ID: b910a6c4-6c8a-0d44-7dbc-a5dcbd509e3f
*Be sure to check with your instructor before using AI tools for any course assignments, and cite any content produced.
AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Generative AI Explained, a 10 minute video created by IBM Technologies
"Generative AI" refers to a branch of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating or generating new content, such as images, text, music, or videos, using machine learning algorithms. Unlike traditional AI systems that are designed to perform specific tasks, Generative AI is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that creates (aka generates) content based on the data and examples it was trained on.
Generative AI includes:
Large Language Models or LLMs (ChatGPT)
Image-generating (Bing Image Generator)
Video or audio creation (Runway AI or Synthesia)
Searching or Research Assistance (Elicit or Research Rabbit)
Writing Assistance (Grammarly or Easy Bib)
In academic and other contexts, some tasks generative AI can help with:
Please note: This list is not meant to be exhaustive, but rather, the purpose is to provide some ideas for potential benefits of using generative AI.
*Be aware of the copyright restrictions of any content you upload to an AI tool.
Some limitations or drawbacks with using generative AI may include:
Prone to Errors
Sometimes, generative AI tools like ChatGPT may generate fictitious information, presented as factual or accurate. These are sometimes referred to as "hallucinations" or "deep fakes" (for audio-visual).
Limited Context Comprehension
While AI tools can generate coherent responses, they may struggle with understanding the broader context or intent behind a question or request. See the tab on "Using Generative AI" to mitigate some of this limitation.
Limited Search Capabilities
While AI tools can automate the process of searching for relevant literature, their search capabilities may not be as comprehensive or flexible as those of human researchers. Generative AI tools are not search engines--they simply use large amounts of data to generate responses constructed to "make sense" according to common cognitive paradigms.
Currency
Many generative AI tools are trained on data with cutoff dates, resulting in answers that may not be up-to-date, or exclude current information and events. The data cutoff date is not always made clear to the user.
Human Interaction and Creativity
Human researchers often employ a more diverse and creative approach to literature search. Over-reliance on generative AI tools in education could potentially diminish the importance of human interaction and creativity. Education is not solely about information delivery but also about fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and personal expression. Excessive use of AI-generated content might limit students' opportunities for active engagement, exploration, and scholarship as conversation.
Note: In addition to many of the known limitations outlined here, generative AI may be prone to problems yet to be discovered or not fully understood.
This guide was created with the help of many different resources.
Building an AI Literacy Framework: Perspectives from Instruction Librarians and Current Information Literacy Tools from ACRL
Artificial Intelligence and Librarianship by Martin Frické at the University of Arizona
A special thank you to Georgetown University, Portland Community College, The Chicago School, and The University of Maryland for their well-designed and thoughtful guides from which some content has been adapted for this guide.
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