A collaborative effort between Mississippi State University and Baylor University has led to the creation of a database featuring 250 AI tools tailored for social science research, aiming to enhance research practices and encourage exploration of AI in academia.
AI Tools Database for Social Science Research Launched
Mississippi State University and Baylor University researchers have launched a comprehensive database featuring 250 AI tools designed to enhance social science research. Developed by Megan Stubbs-Richardson, Devon Brenner, and Lauren Etheredge from Mississippi State University, alongside MacKenzie Paul from Baylor University, the database was released on October 5, 2023, and has already garnered over 400 downloads across 49 countries.
AI tools listed in the database assist with literature reviews, data collection, analyses, and research dissemination. They are categorized according to their functions, costs, and additional features such as plug-in extensions. Notably, 131 tools are identified as useful for literature reviews, 146 for data collection or analysis, and 108 for research dissemination.
A significant portion of the tools require payment; however, the database also includes 85 freely available tools and several with “freemium” models. Social scientists express caution about AI, with only 22% of university faculty regularly using AI tools. Nevertheless, the database aims to demonstrate AI’s capability to save time and enhance the quality of research.
The researchers emphasize the importance of ethical use and verification of sources provided by AI tools to avoid the dissemination of false information. The initiative aims to foster more efficient research practices and broaden the academic community’s exploration of AI.
