Information Literacy
Information literacy Information literacy is the ability to locate, evaluate, and effectively use information. In an era of information overload, researchers must discern credible sources from unreliable ones. Academic libraries provide essential tools to develop this skill, including access to scholarly databases, research guides, and citation management software. Information literacy involves: Identifying information needs: Understanding […]
Learning Search Strategies
Effective research requires mastering search strategies that enhance efficiency and relevance. Some key strategies include: Using Boolean Operators: Combining keywords with AND, OR, and NOT to refine search results. Applying Advanced Search Filters: Filtering results by date, subject, language, and document type in databases. Leveraging Subject Headings: Using controlled vocabulary and indexing terms to find […]
GenerativeAI in Research
Generative AI (GenAI) tools, such as ChatGPT and Gemini, can assist in research by: Generating Search Terms and Research Questions: AI can suggest relevant keywords and refine research inquiries. Summarizing Articles and Extracting Key Points: AI can provide concise overviews of lengthy texts. Assisting with Literature Reviews: AI can identify connections between different research papers […]
Evaluating Online Resources
With vast amounts of information available online, researchers must critically assess the credibility of sources using established frameworks such as: CRAAP Test (Blakeslee, 2004): Currency: Is the information up-to-date? Relevance: Does it relate to the research topic? Authority: Is the author reputable? Accuracy: Is the information supported by evidence? Purpose: Is it biased or neutral? […]
Misinformation & Fake News
False or misleading information spreads rapidly online, making critical thinking essential. Strategies to combat misinformation include: Fact-Checking Websites: Use tools like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or library resources to verify claims. Identifying Bias: Evaluate the objectivity of the source and consider different perspectives. Recognizing Manipulation Techniques: Be cautious of emotional language, misleading headlines, and lack of citations. […]
Responsible Use of GenAI
While Generative AI (GenAI) offers research support, scholars must use it responsibly by: Cross-Checking AI-Generated References: Verifying citations with scholarly databases. Ensuring Ethical Research Standards: Avoiding AI-generated plagiarism and maintaining academic integrity. Recognizing AI’s Limitations: Understanding that AI can sometimes generate incorrect or biased information. Using AI as a Supplement, Not a Replacement: AI should […]
APA Style
What is APA Style? The American Psychological Association (APA) style is widely used in social sciences, education, business, and some health disciplines. The current edition is the 7th edition of the APA Publication Manual. Key Features of APA Style In-Text Citations: APA uses an author-date format for in-text citations (e.g., Smith, 2020). Reference List: Sources […]
SBL Style
What is SBL Style? The Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) style is primarily used in religious and theological studies. It is outlined in the SBL Handbook of Style, 2nd edition, and is often required in seminaries and biblical studies programs. Key Features of SBL Style Footnotes and Bibliography: Unlike APA, SBL primarily uses footnotes for […]
AIIAS Writing Manuals
Theological Seminary Research Standards and Writing Manual Graduate School Writing and Research Manual
Zotero
Zotero: Your Essential Tool for Research and Citation Management In the fast-paced world of academic research, keeping track of sources, citations, and references can be overwhelming. This is where Zotero, a powerful open-source reference management tool, becomes an essential companion for researchers, students, and educators. Whether you’re writing a thesis, preparing a journal article, or […]
