Integrating AI-powered tools into literature review instruction: insights from business and honors research courses Academic Article uri icon

Abstract

  • This study investigates how generative AI tools such as Research Rabbit, Elicit, and Litmaps can support the development of business information literacy among undergraduate and graduate students. Conducted in two writing-intensive courses, one in a business research methods course and one in an honors course, the mixed-methods study explores students’ engagement with AI-powered tools during the literature review process. Using pre/post surveys, tool usage tracking, and interviews, the study assesses changes in efficiency, comprehension, and research skill development. Findings suggest that AI tools enhanced students’ ability to identify relevant literature, visualize research networks, and organize information by theme. However, limitations were observed in source verification, workflow integration, and tool performance in niche subject areas. Students valued AI tools as complements, not replacements, to traditional library databases and research support services. The study concludes that when AI tools are introduced with instructional scaffolding, they can enhance research confidence, organization, and efficiency while maintaining critical research competencies. Implications for librarians include embedding AI literacy into instruction, aligning tool use with learning outcomes, and developing rubrics that account for ethical and effective tool integration. This research provides a framework for supporting AI-enhanced research while reinforcing foundational business information literacy skills.

Publication Date

  • 2026-01-01