AI For Bized

Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Seedwell Sithole
author

Seedwell Sithole

Associate Professor Seedwell Sithole is course convenor for the Bachelor of Business at Avondale University. His research interest is in accounting education, with a focus on instructional strategies, cognitive load theory and the integration of technology.

As we reach the midpoint of 2024, Generative AI continues to maintain its influential presence. Take for instance the fact many educational institutions have embraced the integration of AI into their curricula, transforming it from a mere academic influence into a vital educational resource. For example, AI-powered tutoring provides personalised assistance to students, catering to their unique learning preferences and styles. It is anticipated that these systems are poised to recognise moments when students encounter difficulties with concepts and recommend specific resources, challenging the conventional approach of standardised teaching methods.

In a classroom setting, Gen AI is fostering creativity and innovation, including aiding students in coding, crafting music, or even producing art, offering a digital playground for exploration. In a business class setting, we now demonstrate how AI-powered software streamlines repetitive tasks such as data entry and reconciliation, enabling students to focus on higher-order analytical skills. This eliminates the need for demonstrating traditional methods of data entry and reconciliation which typically involve manual input and comparison of financial data, a process susceptible to errors and is time consuming. To see more about how Gen AI can be used in classrooms, refer to TEQSA RESOURCES ON INCORPORATING AI IN YOUR CLASSES HERE

The integration of AI in education is not without its hurdles. The educational system is grappling with issues such as plagiarism and the ethical deployment of AI in classrooms. Generative AI’s capacity to compose essays, solve intricate equations, and even produce art has sparked a nuanced debate surrounding academic integrity and the authenticity of students’ work. In fact, there is a resistance and apprehension within the academic community regarding this untested technology. Critics voice concerns about Generative AI’s potential to diminish critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as its tendency to generate misleading or fabricated information. These challenges have ignited discussions on how to pragmatically introduce AI usage in a manner that reinforces, rather than compromises, the principles of educational integrity and the learning journey. In response to these challenges, numerous courses and workshops have emerged, focusing on AI literacy, ethical AI use etc. ALSO SEE TEQSA RESOURCES HERE. These initiatives aim to ensure individuals become active participants in its development rather than passive consumers. Ethical AI courses promote critical thinking, encouraging learners to question both the application and appropriateness of AI technology, fostering a sense of accountability. As we progress, the ethical implications of AI challenge us to consider not only what we can do with technology, but also what we ought to do based on our values.

Academics have undergone a profound transformation, to become guides in a world where information is abundant, but wisdom is scarce. As facilitators of knowledge, in our preparation of students for the realities of the business world, we now play a pivotal role in assisting students in understanding the nuances of AI while simultaneously cultivating essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning.

Study an MBA at Avondale

Church-related, not-for-profit and other organisations require effective business leaders who understand the needs of their organisations. Avondale’s Master of Business Administration provides students with advanced training in the practical, ethical, moral and spiritual dimensions of leadership. Learn more and download your course guide.

DOWNLOAD COURSE GUIDE

Leave a Comment