Using generative AI (GenAI) can be useful during the literature search. For example, because it can save time. However, it is important to know how to use this responsibly.
► Zuyd uses Microsoft Copilot. Log in with your school account. Preferably always use this AI tool.
► This tab explains how to use GenAI in a useful and responsible way during the literature search. More or less the same applies to other AI tools.
► This is based on the 6 steps of literature research. For each step, advice is given on how to apply/not apply generative AI.
PS: The green arrows (►) indicate what you can use AI tools, such as Copilot or ChatGPT, perfectly well for. Red (►) means that a particular application of GenAI is not recommended.
During this step, you orient yourself to the topic, then delineate it to what interests you and finally formulate a research question (e.g. according to the SMART model).
Orientation
► Ask GenAI for (general) information on a particular topic. Eg: What is COPD? Describe how VR is applied in psychiatry.
► Explore which concepts and theories are relevant to your research. GenAI can clarify these for you.
Delimiting
► Brainstorm with GenAI to make your topic more concrete.
► GenAI cannot determine which part is interesting about your topic.
Formulate SMART research question
A SMART research question is Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Realistic & Time-bound.
► If necessary, ask GenAI to formulate a SMART search query. Be critical and use it for inspiration.
Look for as many relevant search terms as possible that match your research question.
► GenAI can give you input for this. Eg: Give English synonyms for thrombosis.
Decide which information sources you will search in. Start from the overview Databases A-Z on the Zuyd Library website.
► Ask GenAI for clarification on a particular database. What is it good at? Eg: What are the differences between PubMed and Embase? Which databases from this list contain literature on healthcare technology: https://libguides.bibliotheek.zuyd.nl/az.php?
You will now decide how you want to search the database. Which search method will you apply?
► GenAI is not suitable to make a choice in this.
► However, you can use GenAI for inspiration. E.g.: Work out a search strategy with the following building blocks: ...
Tip:
► Litmaps can be a useful tool to apply the citation and snowball method. This tool shows which articles are linked by citations.
When you start searching, GenAI does not add value.
► GenAI cannot assess or select which information is relevant to you. You will have to do this yourself.
Make sure your research paper is verifiable and reproducible. One way to do this is to correctly cite sources.
► GenAI is unreliable in formulating APA references. Draft these yourself.
► GenAI can do preliminary work, though. Check your references, e.g. with the APA booklet. Eg: Refer to these sources according to APA7: ...
► Let GenAI check your own references, but be critical of any corrections. Eg: Check that the following references are correct according to APA7: ...
Citing GenAI
► Here you find how to refer to Copilot or other generative AI tools as sources.
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