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Woodward Library Resources with AI Features: EBSCO

EBSCO databases

EBSCO databases

 

Natural Language Search is meant to ease the stress of crafting the perfect search query for those not familiar with advanced research methods. Natural Language Search (NLS) is a search mode that uses AI to parse queries. It can be accessed with the other search modes in the EBSCO interface. After the Natural Language Search parses your query, the parsed query is then sent to the EBSCO search engine that performs the same relevancy ranking and other specialty search functionality as traditional search.

The option to use NL search can be found on the Basic search and Results pages and  under Search modes on the Advanced search screen.

NL search option

When using the Natural Language Search option, the user will have an option to Show refined query, which will display a Boolean version of their natural language query. This transparency allows researchers to see how their queries are interpreted by the system, serving as a verification tool to ensure the AI correctly understands their intent.

View query structure

  • When full-text articles are available, the Generate AI Insights button may appear beside the Access Options button.
  • Clicking the button initiates the AI insights feature. The Insights are generally 2 - 5 bullet points that are identified as highlights or important points from the article.

Partial results screen of Academic Search Complete database search for articles related to AI in college or university education with a focus on students. Results 9 and 10 in the list are shown and the Generate AI Insights button for result 9 is encircled in a purple oval. Result 10 does not offer the Generate AI Insights feature.

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Shows the 5 AI-generated Insights for the article AI Governance in Higher Education: Case Studies of Guidance at Big Ten Universities

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  • The Generate AI Insights function has been rolled out across all EBSCO databases; HOWEVER, it's availability depends on publishers to opt in. This is why it appears sporadically in various databases. It is also important to note that it only shows up for resources that include a direct full-text file as an access option.