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AI and Information Literacy: Overview

Guide information and SSU Center for Teaching and Innovation Resources

Generative AI

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that uses machine learning algorithms to produce or remix content based on prompts inputted by the user. It is a rapidly evolving technology that impacts the way we create content and solve problems. 

{Attribution to Imagining the Digital Future, Elon University, It is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution CC BY-NC-SA license.}

When you are using these tools, it is important to think critically and evaluate the reliability, accuracy and context of the content generated. Below are some pros and cons to consider.

Generative AI Product Tracker: Created and updated by ITHAKA -SR

Opportunities

Generative AI tools can help you with:

  • Brainstorming, editing, improving grammar, sentence construction and other language elements
  • Summarizing information like your class or research notes
  • Generating practice or quiz questions for exam preparation
  • Translating text into different languages
  • Providing stimulus or generate ideas that you extend and develop
  • Organizing your study time

Limitations & concerns

Generative AI tools and their output:

  • Are based on a limited and an unknown set of data
  • Can be generic and lack true understanding of the content area
  • Generate false information (referred to as hallucinations)
  • Don't provide citations for the information they give you
  • Include biased information and reproduce errors in their sources

More on evaluation from Boston College Libraries
More on ethical considerations from Boston College Libraries

Attribution The content of this box was adapted from Using generative AI, created by Deakin Library, licensed by CC BY NC 4.0.

AI Tools

Resources from the University of Arizona Libraries

AI in the Classroom LibGuide, from Eastern Florida State College

GitHub CopilotLinks to an external site. GitHub Copilot is an AI pair programmer that translates natural human language into programming code.


AI Toolbox for Academic Research and Writing - Laura Roberts, NEFDC - a list of free AI tools for writing and research and how they might be incorporated into the writing process.

An Introduction for AI Tools for Educators - Cornell University Center for Teaching and Learning

Image Generating AI Tools

Image-generating AI Tools

Librarian

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Rukmal Ryder
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