Search Tool Comparison Activity

This assignment, by Megan Fitzgibbons, is from the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy Sandbox.

The summary from the site explains:

This group activity is conceived of as part of a larger session about finding academic books and articles. It is an opportunity to address emerging AI tools like Elicit and the various chatbots. The jigsaw design assigns each group one tool to evaluate and present to the rest of the class.

Key Features of This Assignment

Comprehensive Search Tool Evaluation
The assignment guides students to thoroughly evaluate different search tools, including Google Scholar, AI tools like ChatGPT and Elicit, and academic databases. This helps them understand the unique features, benefits, and limitations of each tool, promoting informed decision-making in research.
Collaborative Learning and Presentation
Students work in groups to investigate and analyze their assigned search tools, then present their findings to peers. This collaborative approach enhances learning through discussion, peer feedback, and the collective synthesis of information.
Practical Application of Search Skills
Through hands-on activities, students practice using various search tools to find academic information on a given topic. This practical application reinforces their search skills, making them more proficient in locating relevant academic resources for their own assignments.