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Embracing AI in the Classroom: Insights and Innovations from Elon’s Students and Faculty
Celebrating Milestones and Evolving Excellence
Associate Professor Adam Aiken leverages AI tools like ChatGPT and Github Copilot in his finance classes to shift the focus from coding specifics to higher-order problem-solving.
“These tools can automate routine coding tasks, allowing students to concentrate on understanding and solving complex financial questions,” Aiken explained. He has observed that students engage more actively with AI, using it as a tutor for explaining topics and completing assignments faster.
His research in financial institutions and hedge funds benefits from these AI tools. “Large language models like Copilot reduce my coding time, allowing me to focus on data analysis and interpretation,” Aiken shared. However, he remains cautious about potential pitfalls, emphasizing the importance of foundational knowledge.
Assistant Professor Hyunuk Kim encourages students to utilize AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance their learning experience in his business analytics courses.
“I allow students to use AI for their assignments,” Kim said. “It’s not just about solving problems but learning how to use AI to increase productivity.”
Kim’s methods foster understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations. During exams, students can opt to solve traditional problems or create visual representations like charts and graphs using software, while accessing various AI tools.
Kim believes that while AI can automate many processes, human expertise will always be invaluable. “Interpreting AI with expertise and experience makes our students more competitive and valuable,” he said.
Assistant Professor Lana Waschka integrates AI into her marketing analytics and digital marketing courses for practical experience. “AI is essential for modern marketing, from chatbots to neural networks for customer behavior analysis,” Waschka said.
Her courses cover AI applications like content generation and programmatic advertising. “Integrating AI news stories helps students understand real-world applications and stay updated on technological advancements,” she noted.
Students use tools like Adobe image generation and ChatGPT for projects, blending analytical rigor with creative solutions. “It’s rewarding to see students’ innovative use of AI in their projects,” she said.
Professor Steve DeLoach integrates AI into his senior thesis proposal development and econometrics courses with a custom GPT model for STATA coding questions and econometrics issues.
“AI tools like PDF Gear have been game-changers, allowing students to quickly summarize and understand complex economic papers,” DeLoach shared. He focuses on critical thinking and effective use of AI, encouraging students to ask insightful questions.
While DeLoach notes that AI can summarize and process information, evaluating research quality is the student’s responsibility. He plans to further incorporate AI into his courses to create a more interactive learning environment.
Assistant Professor Smaraki Mohanty employs AI tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly to enrich her digital marketing and consumer behavior courses. “AI helps create engaging in-class activities and provides students with practical skills for their future careers,” Mohanty said.
Her approach focuses on using AI for experiential learning, from idea generation to creating digital content. Mohanty emphasizes prompt engineering to teach students how to effectively use AI tools which enhances their learning outcomes.
Her research in human-computer interaction and sustainability aligns with her teaching methods. She highlights a student project using AI to refine a research idea on the impact of race on luxury consumption.
Mohanty encourages educators to embrace AI for its potential to transform education. “Integrating AI into the classroom can be challenging, but it’s ultimately rewarding for both students and teachers,” she emphasized.
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