Research Skills in an AI World (Registration Only)
 
Session starts Jan, 2027 
Taught by Ms. Jane Boyd
$200 Full Session
(Registration only. No payment is required for now.)
90 minutes x 10 classes;
Minimum age 12, grade 6. 
 
Course Description
 
Artificial intelligence has changed the way students find and use information. While answers are easier to find, students still need to research independently, evaluate sources, and recognize inaccurate or misleading information.
 
This hands-on course combines traditional research skills with an understanding of AI. Students will learn how to find credible information, organize their research, cite sources, and develop an original research project.
 
AI use is optional. Students will learn about AI and its ethical use, but they do not need an AI account. Students can complete all research online without access to a physical library.
 
What Students Will Learn
 
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Ask focused research questions.
Find and evaluate reliable online information.
Recognize bias, misinformation, and questionable sources.
Understand the benefits, limitations, and ethical use of AI.
Take effective notes, avoid plagiarism, and cite sources.
Organize and present an original, evidence-based research project.
These are skills students can use throughout their education, regardless of their academic interests.
 
Proposed 10-Week Syllabus
Research Basics: Asking the Right Questions
Smart Internet Searching: Finding What You Need
Reliable Sources: Knowing Where to Look
Evaluating Information: Recognizing Bias
Fact-Checking: Identifying Misinformation
Artificial Intelligence: Understanding AI and Ethical Use
Research Notes: Organizing Information and Avoiding Plagiarism
Giving Credit: Citing Sources Correctly
Putting It Together: Developing a Research Project
Final Presentations: Sharing Research Findings
 
Each 90-minute class will include instruction, guided practice, and time for students to work on their research. Assignments and expectations will be adjusted for students' grade levels.
 
About the Instructor
 
Jane Boyd is the Director Emeritus of Speech and Debate at Grapevine High School and a nationally recognized educator inducted into multiple speech and debate halls of fame. In addition to developing MeeGo's original debate and public speaking courses in 2021, Jane has extensive experience teaching students how to research, evaluate evidence, think critically, and communicate their findings. She authored Teaching Online Research Skills and developed additional research materials, including How to Research in 5 Days: Teacher Packet and How to Research in 5 Days: Student Workbook. Her experience teaching research and developing curriculum provides the foundation for this course.