HROB 101: Management of Contemporary Organizations

Workplace Skills • Critical Thinking • Research

Reflection on Instructional Change:

In the ACUE GenAI course, I decided to focus on teaching with AI through inclusive and AI-resistant learning experiences. My goal is to help students understand both the opportunities and limitations presented by AI, thereby enhancing their critical thinking and research skills. I aim to guide students in recognizing AI as a powerful tool that can create significant opportunities while fostering their ability to critically evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the information it provides.

First: the topic was introduced I introduced the topic emphasizing that in today's rapidly evolving work environment AI is revolutionizing not just technology, but also the fundamental structure of the job market. This economic transformation necessitates a workforce skilled in not only technical AI competencies but also soft skills like critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and adaptability.

Second: I introduced an assignment and gave my students the following instructions

The purpose of this assignment is to enhance your critical thinking and research skills by evaluating and analyzing the skills necessary for success in an automated workplace. You will work collaboratively to exchange ideas, then individually research and verify information specific to your profession of interest.

Group Discussion: In your assigned groups, review and discuss the provided list of skills for the automated workplace. Discuss the following questions: Which skills do you find most relevant or surprising? Are there any skills you feel are missing from this list? How do you think these skills align with the future of work in your field?
Research: Using Copilot (free for CSUS students) or another AI tool, search for the most important skills required in your chosen profession (e.g., accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, etc.) within the context of an automated or technology-driven workplace.

Evaluate the information: check the sources provided by Copilot and ensure their credibility. Cross-check the accuracy of the information by comparing it with other reliable sources (e.g., academic journals, professional association websites, or credible industry reports).

Reflection: Reflect on how the profession-specific skills you researched compare to the initial list discussed in your group. Consider whether certain skills are emphasized more or less in your field.

Written Submission
Submit a brief (2 pages) written report that includes the following three parts:

Research Findings: The key skills identified for your profession. References to the sources you used to verify the information.

Reflection and Analysis: Compare your findings with the group’s initial discussion list. Discuss why certain skills are more important in your field and how they prepare professionals for an automated workplace.

Conclusion: Your overall perspective on the role of these skills in navigating the future of work.

Students responded positively, demonstrating strong engagement with the concepts and actively applying critical thinking to explore the opportunities and limitations of AI. They found it relevant and practical e.g., I liked using Copilot—it was a new way to do research, and it gave me insights I hadn’t thought of before about what HR professionals need in an automated workplace. They also engaged in critical thinking e.g., It was interesting to compare what my group discussed with the skills I researched for accounting. It helped me understand why things like data analysis and adaptability are emphasized in my field. It also gave the students the opportunity to learn a new tool, e.g., This was my first-time using AI for research. I liked that we had to check the accuracy of the information—it taught me not to rely blindly on AI tools.

Evidence of Instructional Change

evidence of instructional change
Introducing the assignment Add a short caption under your image here	Slide presented on Emerging Skills	Class word cloud on Benefits of Levering AI - Exciting is one of the Class trends

Practice and Reflect Teaching and Learning with AI:

This exercise, provided me with valuable insight into how students think about automation, their fields, and the relevance of skills for the future. This also offered valuable insights into gaps in student knowledge and areas that may require further exploration.

Course Syllabus

HROB 101 Syllabus Fall 2024.docx

Faculty Bio

faculty bio
	Dr. Laura Riolli is a Full Professor in the Department of Management and Organizations, College of Business. She is also a Gallup Strength Certified Coach. Her teaching and research focuses on management and organizational behavior.

Funding
	This work was supported by: US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution Project TECH4Equity US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEM4Equity P031C210012 *Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation or the US Department of Education.