Module 1: Search Engines vs. AI
Page 1: Understanding Search Engines and AI
What is a Search Engine?
A search engine, like Google or Bing, is a tool that helps users find information by scanning a vast database of indexed web pages. When you enter a question or keywords, the search engine retrieves a list of links relevant to your query.
🔍 Example:
If you search for “history of the internet”, Google will generate a list of websites, articles, and resources that match your keywords. You can then explore these sources to find reliable information.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Artificial Intelligence refers to computer systems that can perform tasks requiring human intelligence, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and natural language processing. Unlike search engines, AI tools like ChatGPT generate direct, conversational responses based on a vast pre-trained knowledge base.
🤖 Example:
If you ask ChatGPT “Explain the history of the internet,” it will provide a summary rather than a list of sources. However, it may not always provide references unless explicitly requested.
Page 2: Comparing Search Engines and AI Tools
Key Differences: Search Engine vs. AI
|
Feature |
Search Engine (Google, Bing, etc.) |
AI Tool (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) |
|
Information Source |
Indexed web pages from across the internet |
Pre-trained knowledge base |
|
Response Format |
List of links to sources |
Direct, conversational answers |
|
Real-Time Updates |
Constantly updated with new information |
Static knowledge (unless browsing is enabled) |
|
Interactivity |
One-way (users explore links) |
Two-way (conversational responses) |
|
Citations |
Provides links to original sources |
May not provide sources unless requested |
While both tools provide valuable insights, they serve different purposes in research and information gathering.
Page 3: When to Use Search Engines vs. AI
Use Search Engines for:
Real-time news and current events – Search engines continuously update their databases, making them ideal for staying informed on the latest news.
Peer-reviewed research – Google Scholar and other academic databases offer access to verified scholarly sources.
Finding original sources – When accuracy matters, search engines help locate primary sources and citations.
Use AI for:
Summarizing complex topics – AI can break down large volumes of information into concise, digestible summaries.
Brainstorming ideas – AI tools can suggest research topics, refine thesis statements, and assist in idea generation.
Writing drafts and outlines – AI can help structure essays, presentations, and reports, making the writing process more efficient.
Using both search engines and AI strategically can improve research quality and efficiency.
Page 4: Activity & Reflection
Activity: Search Engine vs. AI Challenge
Search Task: Use Google (or another search engine) to find recent news on artificial intelligence ethics. Identify two credible sources.
AI Task: Ask ChatGPT the same question. Compare its response to the sources you found.
Reflection Questions:
Did the AI provide sources? Were they accurate?
Which tool provided more reliable information?
When would you prefer to use AI vs. a search engine?
Final Thoughts
Mastering when to use search engines and when to use AI will help you conduct better research, think critically, and make informed decisions. AI is a great tool, but it should be used responsibly—always verify and cross-check information!