Searching for information is an experiment - it's part of the scientific process itself! In this class, we are going to experiment with different methods for finding information. Each group will work together to explore and evaluate different search strategies, developing their own recommendations for the class.
What chemistry-related (broadly defined) question does your group want to explore today?
Usually when I teach, I look at recent science news headlines and choose something I find interesting. Here are a couple articles I've used with other classes for my inspiration that are welcome to start from, but it might be even more interesting to choose a topic on your own.
Different search tools use different kinds of language to return results. You are probably most familiar with what is called natural language searching, which reflects how people talk in real life. Most search engines, like Google, use natural language queries. Some academic databases are beginning to use natural language queries, but most use database/Boolean syntax, which requires us to ask our questions differently.
Use the Search Tips page of this library guide and put together some draft search queries for your research question.
In our groups, we're going to experiment with using different types of search tools. The goal of this time is for you all to evaluate how useful and in what context these would help you find information. Keep notes - it's an experiment!
| Tool Type | Example Tools | Type of Query |
|---|---|---|
| AI large language model tools (AI LLM) |
Choose from the UF AI Tools |
Natural language prompt |
| Search engines and discovery tools |
Google / Google Scholar |
Mix of natural language and Boolean |
| Literature database |
Boolean in Advanced Search mode Natural language in the new "Smart Search" mode |
Some questions to consider while you explore:
Keep note of at least one academic journal article and one molecule name related to your research question for the last activity.
Choose one academic journal article from any of your results related to your research question. Use the Checking for Peer Review section on this guide to determine if it is a legitimate peer review article.
What about these ones?
What reflections do you have?
Searching is a skill that takes practice. I love meeting with students one-on-one to help. Email me your questions or schedule an appointment anytime!
This class is the first time we've done this lesson as a student-led laboratory. Please send me your anonymous feedback so I can improve for future classes 😊
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