Beyond Search: AI-Powered Literature Review in the Age of Deep Research

The session below is co-hosted by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and the U of A Library. 

This workshop explores the emerging impact of generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) on the research process. We will highlight recent advancements in "deep research" and showcase LLM-powered tools that extend research capabilities beyond traditional methods. The session will then focus on the literature review as a key stage in the research process, providing university faculty with practical strategies for integrating generative AI tools into their literature review process. We will delve into how AI-enhanced tools such as NotebookLM and Elicit can assist in various stages including brainstorming research directions, identifying key literature, summarizing sources and data extraction. Participants will learn about using NotebookLM and Elicit to optimize their research workflows and accelerate the synthesis of scholarly information.

Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize key advancements in the use of generative AI and Large Language Models in academic research 
• Identify and apply specific AI tools (NotebookLM and Elicit) to support key stages of the literature review process, including idea generation, literature search, and source synthesis
• Evaluate the strengths and limitations of AI-driven literature review methods and understand how to integrate these tools ethically and effectively into their research
• Develop strategies for using AI to efficiently extract and synthesize data from research articles, saving time, and enhancing the depth of their literature reviews

This session will be presented by:
Dr. Ali Shiri, Vice Dean, Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies
Kim Frail, Head, Teaching and Learning, University of Alberta Library
Janice Kung, Health Sciences Librarian, Sperber Health Sciences Library.

Explore additional workshops at the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.