59th Annual Congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa

RESEARCH SKILLS WORKSHOP

22 JULY 2024

Using Artificial Intelligence responsibly in data analysis, writing, and research

Overview

Hosted by the Grassland Society of Southern Africa, the Research Skills Workshop is an event that delves into the innovative world of generative AI technologies such as ChatGPT. Since bursting onto the scene in early 2023, these technologies have revolutionized various industries, including academia and research. This workshop offers a unique opportunity for delegates, especially those in the fields of ecology, agriculture, and rangeland science, to explore how generative AI can be a powerful ally in research. From assisting in data analysis and coding, including creating R code, to enhancing the writing process of research papers, the potential applications are vast. However, with great power comes great responsibility. This workshop will not only highlight the benefits but also address the critical aspect of using AI responsibly to avoid pitfalls such as data fabrication and information hallucinations.

Participants are invited to bring their own work, projects, data, and queries for a truly interactive experience. The day is structured to provide initial informative talks, followed by hands-on sessions where attendees can apply these tools to their own research under the guidance of experts. Whether it's statistical analysis, text rephrasing, or information seeking, our workshop is designed to cater to a wide array of research needs. Various tutorials will be available on topics like effective writing, minute-taking, creating macros and functions in Excel, formatting reference lists, and many more. Join us for a day of learning, exploration, and practical application, as we navigate the exciting possibilities of generative AI in enhancing research efficiency and effectiveness.

Hosts

The workshop will be led by Dr Justin du Toit from the Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute. His research specializes in the biotic and abiotic factors influencing Karoo vegetation dynamics, with a special focus on grazing, drought and rainfall patterns and the impact of fire. Since the advent of open-source AI models, he has explored their application and limitations in areas such as statistical analysis, information retrieval, academic writing, and summarization. Furthermore, he has delved into how AI can streamline routine tasks for a diverse group including students, educators, farmers, and administrative professionals.

Justin will be assisted by Dr Victoria Goodall from VLG Statistical Services. She is a statistical consultant, working in various fields including medical, marketing and the biological sciences. Her research work focuses mostly on statistical ecology. Projects include modelling of movement data obtained from satellite tracking of various terrestrial and marine species, marine conservation planning and invasive species eradication programs. Victoria and Justin have investigated the usefulness (and challenges) for analysing data using AI techniques in comparison to traditional work performed by an analyst.

Additionally, the workshop will feature several other expert facilitators, each having substantial experience in research methods, statistical analysis, experimental design, academic writing, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. These facilitators will offer valuable insights into leveraging generative AI as a potent tool in project development and scientific writing, while also advising on the possible challenges and misapplications inherent in this emerging technology.

Click​ for the prelimanary programme.

For further information, please contact the administrator at info@grassland.org.za

For more information contact the administrator at info@grassland.org.za