Preliminary Proceedings of the 62th International Academic Conference, Vienna

GENERATION Z MEETS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE. CURRENT ROLE OF PROFESSORS.

CLAUDIA VAN DER VORST

Abstract:

In today's rapidly evolving environment, students are facing constant changes. With the recent pandemic, followed by the introduction of AI tools such as ChatGPT, students are now expected to adapt their research and other academic pursuits with the use of AI. However, as this is a novel development, it has not been previously taught (cf. Sullivan et at., 2023). The current generation of undergraduates, known as Generation Z (GenZ), completed their high school education during the COVID-19 pandemic, which posed significant challenges for their teachers and professors. As digital natives, GenZ is characterized by their constant use of social media and mobile devices, and they expect changes in their learning and teaching experiences. They prefer interactive situations and hybrid learning but are now faced with generative AI tools (GenAI) that some teachers may forbid due to their own lack of experience. Therefore, students require clear guidance and direction for their academic pursuits (cf. Chan et al., 2023a). Upon graduation, these students will enter the workforce and will be expected to possess knowledge of technology, tools, and GenAI to implement them in various businesses. The research aims to investigate the expectations of GenZ students with the following research questions: ‘What kind of support do GenZ students expect to use AI more effectively?’ and ‘What challenges do GenZ students currently experience during their studies?’ Questionnaires were utilized as a qualitative research method and trends were analyzed through the feedback received and literature research conducted. The study sought to evaluate the students' feedback on their current expectations, as well as their future requirements. The paper aims to provide a clearer perspective on the need for current educational institutions and teaching styles to adapt more quickly in order to support GenZ in their use of new AI tools. To achieve this, a structured approach to writing a final thesis will be provided as an example. Students must leave university with a high level of self-confidence in their ability to adapt to fast-changing situations. They should also be well-equipped with the necessary structures and methodologies for their respective fields of business. While society may not be fully prepared to implement AI in all areas of business immediately, these students will be at the forefront of the development of all possibilities of AI in both business and private life (cf. Gewiese et al., 2024). Even though it seems an outstanding challenge it is a reflection of the past; GenX had to tailor computers and integrate IT and GenY adapted to the Internet and digitalize businesses. Now, these changes are occurring at an unprecedented rate, with less guidance available due to their global nature.

Keywords: Life-long Learning, Higher Education, Education 4.0, Learning Methods, ChatGPT, GenAI, AI, Academic integrity

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