The future is now: One professor’s vision for AI-ready students

The expression "use it or lose it" gained popularity in the late 20th century, originally referring to fitness and cognitive function. In the 21st century, however, this saying applies equally to technology. As technology continues to shape the education and business landscape, one insightful teacher is redefining the classroom experience for her students by introducing them to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Dr. Maya Jaber, an assistant professor of management at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Business, is fully integrating AI into her curriculum this semester. While she understands that many students are new to this technology, she is convinced that the time is now to wade in or be left behind. To facilitate their transition, she has developed an innovative "AI tutor" designed to enhance their learning experience and prepare them for what's to come.

"By creating an AI tutor, I aim to bridge the gap for students who haven't yet discovered the power of this technology, making learning more accessible and engaging for everyone," explained Jaber. "As technology evolves, we must adapt quickly and equip our students with the tools they need to succeed on campus and after they graduate."

Each week, she provides a question that students ask the AI tutor. From there, they are encouraged to develop three additional questions of their own, based on their individual interests. This approach caters to the diverse backgrounds of the students, who range from any university discipline such as engineering, criminal justice or education, resulting in a personalized learning experience.

"We are gaining valuable experience with AI tools that prioritize accuracy and reliability," said sophomore Gage McCalester from Davenport, Iowa, pursuing a major in electrical engineering with a minor in business administration. "By using platforms like Copilot, which provides direct links to credible sources, and a closed version of ChatGPT that adheres strictly to factual content, we are learning to leverage technology to enhance our research capabilities."

McCalester appreciates Jaber's teaching style in her Global Business BUSADMIN 1300 class, building on the valuable insights he gained in her Leadership and Management BUSAMDMIN 2330 class last year.

"Many of my friends who've started their own business pursue a business degree because they can apply what they learn in real time to improve their companies," said McCalester. "For students, simulating that environment is the best way to maximize their learning experience. As we learn to navigate AI, we prepare for a future where it will play a crucial role in our work experiences. Dr. Jaber's approach to using AI closely mirrors recently established best practices in the professional world."

In her classes, Jaber emphasizes understanding over memorization. Instead of traditional tests, she requires her students give presentations, helping them grasp concepts and their interconnections.

"I decided to take the Global Business 1300 class because I was interested in how companies change and adapt to be successful in other countries," said Gracie Cooper, a sophomore from Darlington, Wisconsin, who is considering majoring in either business or biology. "I've never used AI, but I wasn't hesitant because Dr. Jaber told us that it would only use information relevant to our class, which made me less concerned, knowing I would be getting suitable information."

A group of students is tasked with creating their own company, and then share their experiences and solutions with their peers. They are learning that instead of being separated and alienated by technology, it can bring people together. The professor believes AI can demonstrate, for example, that decision-making is a fundamental skill, regardless of the industry.

"We all navigate the same core questions and must make choices," said Jaber. "I've seen AI help them understand the subject matter, especially in decision making. Through this process, they find that similar challenges lead to similar solutions, highlighting the universal nature of decision-making. Whether in engineering or food production, the ability to analyze and resolve problems is relevant across all fields."

Jaber also encourages her students to create their own avatars to explore biases in AI, drawing from her own humorous and enlightening experience.

"It was interesting because creating an avatar showed bias," reflected Jaber. "When I created my avatar as a CEO and an environmentalist, the CEO was portrayed as a man and the environmentalist as a woman. I had to keep changing things to try to finetune it; when I made my hair short, it made me Asian. We can see the biases."

This hands-on approach, combined with real-time education on these biases, is crucial for helping students understand how to navigate AI responsibly.

"Dr. Jaber's incorporation of AI not only enhances our learning experience now but also equips us with the skills to utilize the technology effectively in our careers," said Cooper.

While the full impact of AI on their future work experiences remains to be seen, its benefits are already evident.

"I do not yet know how much AI will directly impact my work experience, though I know it is very good at summarizing long meetings, lectures and organizing daily administrative duties," said McCalester. "AI is here to stay, and learning to use it is important for students. I will use AI going forward because of early and professional exposure to it."

With this unique blend of traditional teaching and cutting-edge technology, Jaber is preparing her students not just to understand AI, but to harness its potential in preparation for what lies ahead after their time at UW-Platteville.

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