Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

Navigating the AI Landscape: A Comprehensive Guide

January 30th, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force across various fields. Whether you are a student, researcher, or educator, staying abreast of AI developments is crucial. Luckily, Dr. Jing Lu, clinical assistant professor of library science, has curated an extensive collection of AI resources, providing a valuable hub for AI enthusiasts at Purdue. “My goal for creating this guide is to empower students, faculty, and researchers with a curated collection of resources that not only navigate the vast landscape of artificial intelligence but also foster a community where knowledge and innovation thrive,” said Lu. She envisions faculty utilizing the guide as a reference to integrate the latest AI technologies into classrooms, recognizing that the evolving industry may soon require students in all fields to adeptly navigate AI tools in their work.

Jing Lu, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Library Science

In her guide, you will find AI tools available and recommended for various fields, including AI tools for research, AI tools for teaching and learning, as well as AI tools for creating images. Lu shares which of these resources are available for free and which subscriptions require a monthly fee. Purdue Libraries is currently actively exploring avenues to make premium AI tools, typically available through paid subscriptions, accessible to all students, showcasing our continued commitment to fostering inclusive access to cutting-edge resources.

Lu also provides guidance on how to cite AI materials, ensuring that researchers and students adhere to the highest standards of academic integrity. Citing AI sources correctly is crucial in academic and research settings. Lu also emphasizes that the efficiency of AI tools often depends on the design and quality of the prompts provided by the user, therefore offers insights into crafting effective queries in her guide. Whether you are a novice or an experienced AI user, these resources will enhance your ability to extract meaningful information from AI applications. 

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding AI is crucial for researchers and content creators. The guide also offers insights into copyright issues related to AI and publisher policies, ensuring that users are equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate legalities and comply with intellectual property regulations. At Purdue, we are also fortunate to have a seasoned expert who stands ready to provide guidance and advice to students, faculty, and researchers navigating the intricacies of copyright issues and related inquiries. Dr. Donna Ferullo, director of the University Copyright Office, can be reached via email at ferullo@purdue.edu or phone at (765) 496-3864. Ferullo’s latest book “Copyright: Best Practices for Academic Libraries,” which was published in August, also offers advice and best practices for the application of copyright law to AI and other new technologies. 

For further assistance or questions, Boilermakers can reach Dr. Jing Lu at (765) 494-1352 or via email at lu59@purdue.edu.