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Ethical AI: Using AI for Your Research

Structure Findings*

When it comes time to organize your thoughts, you can utilize generative AI to help structure your research. Start with typing in your assignment or end goal, along with your research topic. You can include keywords, facts, and other information as you see fit to start your prompt. Once you get your AI response, ask it to make changes as necessary. See this example below:

Librarian Autumn's Prompt:

I am trying to create an argumentative paper that national parks are beneficial and worth investing in. These are some ideas I have:

- Mental well-being

- Financially good for the states and bring in tourism

- Conservation

- Hiking

- Camping

- Jobs

- Ecological Diversity

ChatGPT's Response: 

Those are great points to build your argument! Here's a possible outline to help organize your paper:

Thesis Statement

National parks are invaluable resources that deserve continued investment due to their significant contributions to mental well-being, economic growth, ecological conservation, and community benefits.

Body Paragraphs

  1. Mental Well-Being

    • Discuss how access to nature reduces stress and improves mental health.
    • Reference studies on time spent outdoors lowering anxiety and depression levels.
    • Highlight programs or initiatives in parks that focus on wellness, like guided meditation or yoga.

  2. Economic Benefits

    • Explain how national parks boost local economies through tourism.
    • Provide statistics on visitor spending (lodging, dining, local shops).
    • Mention the role of parks in job creation (rangers, maintenance, local businesses).

  3. Ecological Conservation

    • Discuss the role parks play in protecting endangered species and preserving habitats.
    • Explain the importance of biodiversity and maintaining ecosystems.
    • Highlight examples of successful conservation efforts in specific parks.

  4. Recreational Activities

    • Explore the physical and social benefits of hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
    • Discuss how parks serve as spaces for families and communities to connect.
    • Highlight programs that promote recreation, like Junior Ranger programs.

  5. Cultural and Educational Value

    • Mention how parks preserve cultural landmarks and historical sites.
    • Discuss their role in educating the public about history, science, and environmental stewardship.

  6. Long-Term Sustainability

    • Explain how investing in national parks ensures they remain viable for future generations.
    • Discuss climate change mitigation through preserved lands acting as carbon sinks.

Counterarguments and Rebuttals

  • Address concerns about funding and land-use priorities.
  • Argue that the long-term benefits (mental health, tourism, conservation) outweigh short-term costs.

Conclusion

  • Restate the importance of national parks for individuals, communities, and the environment.
  • End with a call to action, encouraging continued funding and public support for these treasured spaces.

Would you like me to help expand on any of these sections or recommend specific examples/statistics?

You can read through the full chat here: https://chatgpt.com/share/67991197-0c04-800b-a40f-32944a9bd90d

Ensure Accuracy*

Fig. 2. "Fight the Fake" poster from Britannica School Resources: https://britannicaeducation.com/resources/

 

Much like any other form of research, it is crucial to verify the information provided by AI tools. While AI can be a powerful resource for generating ideas, answering questions, or summarizing content, it is not perfect. AI can sometimes provide outdated, incomplete, or even incorrect information, and it may lack the context necessary to fully address complex topics. Always cross-check AI-generated content with reliable, credible sources to ensure its accuracy and relevance. By doing so, you can confidently use AI as a supplemental tool while maintaining the integrity of your research.