CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Prof. (Dr.) Tapan Kumar Nayak, Dean Academics, Jaipuria School of Business, Ghaziabad
- What do you think are the most critical AI skills for business students to learn to remain competitive in the job market?
Ans: The business management students learn to remain competitive in the job market, hence they must have a mix of technical, analytical, and strategic capabilities which will allow them to effectively leverage AI in decision-making, operations, and innovation. Most specifically they must learn some basic of AI such as Foundational Knowledge of AI and Machine Learning, Data Analysis and Interpretation, AI Tools and Platforms such as ChatGPT, Salesforce Einstein etc., Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Ethics and Responsible AI, Adaptability to Emerging Technologies, Regulatory and Compliance Knowledge etc.
- How do you incorporate AI and data science into your business curriculum, and what strategies have been most effective?
Ans: At Jaipuria School of Business, we have tried to Incorporate AI and data science into a business curriculum through a balanced combination of theoretical grounding, practical application, and strategic integration. The Institute has been offering fundamental subjects such as Fundamentals of Business Analytics, AI in Business and Data Analytics using Python. Specialised subjects include Data Science using R, Tableau, SQL. Predictive Analytics. Analytics has also been integrated in some important domain specific courses such as Marketing Analytics, HR Analytics, Google Dashboard, Supply Chain & Logistic Analytics etc. To develop practical skills of students by solving real-world problems, the courses include hands-on projects, relevant case studies and simulations and offer them industry oriented certifications and workshops.
- What are the biggest challenges you face in teaching AI and business concepts to students with varying levels of technical expertise?
Ans: There are some real challenges we face while delivering the use of AI in different domains as well as in the Analytics domain in particular. Such include, Diverse technical background where some students may have advanced programming or data analysis skills, while others lack even basic technical knowledge; Fear of Technology where Non-technical students may feel intimidated by technical topics like programming, algorithms, or machine learning; Balancing technical depth for advanced students with business relevance for less technical ones; Students struggle to connect theoretical AI concepts with practical business applications, AI and data science are vast fields, and it’s really difficult to cover everything in a single course or a term; ethical implementations in real life and the most challenging aspect is to find competent resource person to deliver and engage students while teaching AI and Data Analytics subjects.
- Are there any specific AI-powered tools or platforms that you’ve found particularly useful in enhancing business education?
Ans: Yes, there are many such AI-powered tools and platforms which have proven highly effective in enhancing business education by enabling practical applications, simplifying complex concepts, and fostering engagement. Some of the most effective tools include PowerBI, Tableau, Excel with AI Ad-ons, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini-AI, ChatGPT, Grammarly, IBM Watson Analytics, Khanmigo, Canva, Kahoot, Google Cloud AI etc.
- How do you assess the effectiveness of AI-focused business education programs, and what metrics do you use to measure success?
Ans: Well, assessing the effectiveness of AI-focused business education programs involves evaluating the program’s ability to achieve desired learning outcomes, prepare students for real-world applications, and ensure that graduates are competitive in the job market. Some of the methods and metrics include, Learning Outcomes and knowledge retention through pre and post-tests, course completion rates and student assessment scores; Practical applications through Capstone project evaluations, internship performance and participation in technical competitions; placement outcomes through placement rates, salary, industry demand alignment; program relevance & innovation through curriculum updates, partnership with industry and technology integration etc.
- What role do you think industry partnerships and collaborations play in helping business education programs address the AI skills gap?
Ans: Industry partnership and collaborations normally bridge the gap between academia and the rapidly evolving demands of the job market by providing students with practical exposure, up-to-date knowledge, and real-world applications. Specifically, Industry partners bring real-world business challenges, different tools, and practices into the classroom activities to make students more application oriented. They also provide internships, apprenticeships, and project-based learning opportunities. Partnerships with industry and corporate help teaching faculty stay updated with AI advancements and industry needs which will ultimately help them to disseminate effective teaching learning in emerging technologies in the classroom. Further, industry often funds AI-related research or collaborates with academic institutions on innovation projects.
- Are there any innovative or experimental approaches to teaching AI in business education that you’re excited about or would like to explore further?
Ans: Of course! There are several innovative and experimental approaches to teaching AI in business education that are transforming how students learn and apply AI concepts in real life business situations. These approaches not only make learning more engaging but also prepare students for the practical challenges of leveraging AI in business contexts. Some of the most effective approaches include AI Driven Personalised Learning, Gamifications in AI concepts, AR & VR, Generative AI such as ChatGPT and DALL E etc, AI Powered Business Simulations. These innovative approaches to teaching AI in business education hold immense potential for transforming how students learn and apply AI in meaningful ways.
