Natural Language Searching:
The EBSCO database features a natural language search function that allows searches like those performed in Google. It will enable you to type a phrase or question into the search box and still receive results. While not a replacement for using a keyword search, it will provide you with results, and if you select the show refined query link, it will provide you with recommended keywords to use for your search question. The natural language search feature is available on the results page within any EBSCO database, including Library OneSearch, just beneath the search box at the top of the page.
Generative AI Insights
EBSCO also has Generative AI Insights available with some of the articles on your results page. This tool provides you with a bulleted list of key takeaways from the article. It can help reduce the time spent searching for relevant sources to support your research by giving you a brief outline of the article.
If the Generative AI Insights feature is available, the button to access the tool will be at the bottom of the article’s description on the results page.
Research Assistant
The ProQuest databases now offer a research assistant feature with most articles. This AI-powered feature provides you with key takeaways to help you quickly evaluate the relevance of a document for your research. Additional features include findings and conclusions for the article, similar sources to explore, and other research topics you might want to consider for your assignment.
The research assistant is available in the right portion of the screen once you access the article. Select the double arrows to expand the tool and explore more.
Ebook Central also offers a Research Assistant feature similar to ProQuest for most of its texts. This tool not only provides you with a description of the book, but key takeaways and concepts as they relate to individual chapters. This tool can give you a general idea of what the source is about and if it will benefit your research.
The Research Assistant feature is not available in all ebooks. If the research assistant is available, you can access it by selecting the Read Online option.
Then select the circle with the three stars in the tools in the left portion of the screen. The tool will appear in the left portion of the screen.
More Information on How to Use AI Responsibly
For information about artificial intelligence and to understand how AI can and cannot be used when completing coursework, please see the following resources:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Guide
- Using Generative AI (such as ChatGPT) for Research & Writing
If you still have questions you can chat in real-time with a librarian here.