Introduction to Africana Studies

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and others can be useful for brainstorming and finding new keywords when you're starting your research, acting as a helpful research assistant. However, you should not cite them as a final source. If your professor allows you to use AI, you must include the prompts you used as citations.

You can also consult the AI Responsible Use Guidelines, in particular, the section for students. 

NOTE: Generative AI tools can be helpful in the early stages of your research, serving as brainstorming tools. However, they can make up facts, sources, and citations.  These are usually referred to as AI hallucinations. 

Research Tip: Always conduct additional research on any information, including keywords, generated by AI. You can search the library's databases and verify using scholarly or peer-reviewed sources. Why? To make sure the information is correct and up to date. 

1.  Brainstorming Keywords:

• "My research topic is the role of women in the Black Panther Party. What are some different angles or sub-topics I could explore to narrow my focus? For each sub-topic, provide 5-7 keywords." Try with ChatGPT.

NOTE: Searching academic databases is generally more effective than using generative AI for research.  While AI can suggest keywords and resources, it often misses the most current and authoritative, peer-reviewed articles because its knowledge is limited to a specific point in time. Your library provides free access to paid databases that contain the latest, most relevant research, which is crucial for building a strong, well-supported argument.

The examples below demonstrate how researchers can use tools like ChatGPT to generate text and assist with research, without relying on them to write the full paper or complete text.

Citing generative AI in APA Style: Blog post maintained by APA.  I will include some examples borrowed from this guide below:

• Prompt and in text citation: I provided the following prompt to ChatGPT (OpenAI , 2025):"My research topic is the role of women in the Black Panther Party. What are some different angles or sub-topics I could explore to narrow my focus? For each sub-topic, provide 5-7 keywords." After reviewing the initial results, I included some of the keywords in my database search and also developed similar synonyms/keywords. 
• Works Cited Citation:  AI Company Name. (year). Tool Name/Model in Italics and Title Case [Description; e.g., Large language model]. URL of the tool

For more guidelines, consult the APA Publication Manual (APA Style Guide). 

Citing generative AI in MLAStyle:  Blog post maintained by MLA.  I will include some examples borrowed from this guide below:

• Prompt and in text citation: When asked about keywords for this research, ChatGPT suggested themes such as "Party hierarchy gender dynamics,” “Women’s grassroots organizing” and “Black feminism political influence” (ChatGPT).
• Works Cited Citation: ChatGPT. "My research topic is the role of women in the Black Panther Party. What are some different angles or sub-topics I could explore to narrow my focus? For each sub-topic, provide 5-7 keywords."” ChatGPT, 17 Sept. 2025, OpenAI, https://chat.openai.com

For more guidelines, consult the the MLA Style Guide. 

Citing generative AI in Chicago Style:  Blog post maintained by The Chicago Manual.  I will include some examples borrowed from this guide below:

• Prompt and in text citation: According to ChatGPT, relevant terms include "Party hierarchy gender dynamics,” “Women’s grassroots organizing” and “Black feminism political influence”(OpenAI 2025).
• Works Cited Citation: OpenAI. 2025. ChatGPT. September 17, 2025. https://chat.openai.com/

For more guidelines, consult the Chicago-Style Citation Quick Guide.