Abstract Book of the 7th World Conference on Education and Teaching Studies
Year: 2025
DOI:
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AI and Business Education: Ethical Challenges and Practical Applications
Arlene J. Nicholas
ABSTRACT:
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform industries, integrating AI education into business curricula is essential. Traditionally housed within computer science, AI’s applications are now vital in fields like finance, marketing, healthcare, and HR. This paper explores AI’s role in business education, drawing from interviews and research on best practices, and offering strategies for effective teaching. Students, already familiar with AI tools like ChatGPT, are entering a rapidly evolving academic landscape. A University of Baltimore white paper highlights that 67% of faculty and 54% of students have used ChatGPT, while 40% of prospective business students expect AI to be a core educational topic. U.S. states and leading universities like Harvard and Northwestern have AI guidelines in place, primarily addressing issues such as plagiarism. However, there are many potential benefits in business contexts. Educators must emphasize the ethical use of AI, teaching students how to navigate AI’s limitations, such as algorithmic bias and misinformation (or “hallucinations”). Institutions like Harvard Business School and MIT’s Sloan School are incorporating real-world examples into curricula, highlighting AI’s ethical challenges in business decision-making. For example, Uber’s surge pricing algorithm provides a practical case of AI’s ethical implications. AI should be embraced as a tool for innovation, not just for detecting misconduct. This paper outlines pedagogical methods to balance technical proficiency with ethical awareness, preparing students for AI-integrated roles in the workforce. By fostering critical thinking and responsible AI use, business schools can ensure their graduates are ready to succeed in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
keywords: AI, business students, challenges, education, ethical