Library Guides: Library Search Skills: Using AI to Search
University of New South Wales Library
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 2 July 2026
- Priority Score
- 1
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 8 July 2026, 10:00 am
Description
Learn about the AI tools available at the Library, and tips for writing effective prompts.
Summary
This educational resource provides a framework for students to ethically and effectively employ generative AI in the research process. It outlines the 'LEARN' principle, emphasizing transparency, privacy protection, and the critical verification of AI-generated references against trusted academic sources. While the guide addresses basic safety through ethical usage and hallucination awareness, it focuses on academic integrity and information literacy rather than catastrophic or existential AI risks. The content serves as a local Australian implementation of AI integration guidelines within a higher education governance context.
Body
Before using any AI tools for an assignment, check your course guidelines to ensure that the use of AI is permitted.
Generative AI can help you with parts of your research process, for tasks such as:
brainstorming ideas
understanding an assignment topic
finding general information
There are certain strategies that you can adopt to ensure you are using AI technologies effectively and ethically. Follow these principles when you use AI as part of your research process:
Text version
LEARN
L for Look with intention
Set the role, tone, and perspective you want (e.g. beginner, expert, tutor)
E for Ethics matter
Respect copyright laws
Protect privacy
Be transparent about AI use
A for Ask with focus
Be specific: include topic, level, format
Ask for real sources
R for Review carefully
Check for errors
Identify misleading claims
Re-prompt for better results
N for Need to check
Verify facts and references using Library or trusted sources