Google is experimenting with a new AI based search tool called Scholar Labs that aims to help users find detailed research papers. The tool is being positioned as a fresh step forward, but it also raises an important question about whether AI can reliably surface high quality science.
Scholar Labs uses artificial intelligence to understand the key themes and relationships in a research query. It is currently available only to a small number of logged in users. In a demonstration, the tool was shown answering a question about brain computer interfaces. The first result was a review paper from 2024 published in a journal named Applied Sciences. Scholar Labs also explained why it chose that result, noting that the paper covers electroencephalogram signals and outlines important algorithms in the field.
However, the tool does not include filters that many researchers rely on to judge study quality. One such measure is the number of citations a paper receives. This number hints at how often other scientists have found the study useful. Some papers attract hundreds of citations within months while older papers may gather thousands over years. Another common measure is the impact factor of a journal. Journals with higher impact factors often carry a stronger reputation for rigorous research. Applied Sciences reports an impact factor of two point five, while Nature reports a significantly higher impact factor of forty eight point five.
The original Google Scholar still allows users to sort results by relevancy and displays citation counts. The goal of the new tool is to surface “the most useful papers for the user’s research quest,” according to a spokesperson. The system ranks studies by evaluating the full text, the place of publication, the authors, and how often and how recently the work has been cited in scholarly literature.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News is a premier platform dedicated to delivering latest news, updates, and insights from the tech industry. With its strong foundation of intellectual property and thought leadership, the platform is well-positioned to stay ahead of the curve and lead conversations about how technology shapes our world. From its early days as CIO News to its rebranding as The Mainstream on November 28, 2024, it has been expanding its global reach, targeting key markets in the Middle East & Africa, ASEAN, the USA, and the UK. The Mainstream is a vision to put technology at the center of every conversation, inspiring professionals and organizations to embrace the future of tech.
