ChatGPT in the classroom: navigating the generative AI wave in management education

PurposeThe study aims to explore the role of ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) language model, in the field of management education. Specifically, the goal is to evaluate ChatGPT's effectiveness in facilitating active learning, promoting critical thinking, and fostering creativity among students. Additionally, the study seeks to investigate the potential of ChatGPT as a novel tool for enhancing traditional teaching methods within the framework of management education.Design/methodology/approachThis research systematically explores ChatGPT's impact on student engagement in management education, considering AI integration benefits and limitations. Ethical dimensions, including information authenticity and bias, are scrutinized, alongside educators' roles in guiding AI-augmented learning.FindingsThe study reveals ChatGPT's effectiveness in engaging students, nurturing critical thinking, and fostering creativity in management education. Ethical concerns regarding information authenticity and bias are addressed. Insights from student and teacher perceptions offer valuable pedagogical implications for AI's role in management education.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study offers valuable insights into the role of ChatGPT in management education, it is essential to acknowledge certain limitations. Firstly, the research primarily focuses on a specific AI model (ChatGPT), and findings may not be generalized to other AI language models. Additionally, the study relies on a specific set of educational contexts and may not fully capture the diverse landscape of management education globally. The duration of the research and the sample size could also impact the generalizability of the findings.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study hold practical significance for educators and institutions engaged in management education. The integration of ChatGPT into teaching strategies has the potential to improve active learning, critical thinking, and creativity. Educators can utilize this AI tool to diversify instructional methods and accommodate diverse learning styles. However, the practical implementation of AI in the classroom necessitates meticulous consideration of infrastructure, training, and ongoing support for both educators and students. Furthermore, institutions should proactively tackle ethical concerns and establish guidelines for the responsible use of AI in education.Social implicationsThe incorporation of AI, such as ChatGPT, in management education carries broader social implications. The study underscores the significance of addressing ethical concerns associated with AI, including issues related to information authenticity and bias. As AI becomes more widespread in educational settings, there is a necessity for societal discussions on the role of technology in shaping learning experiences. This research advocates for a thoughtful approach to AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the development and deployment of AI technologies within the educational sphere. The findings prompt reflections on the societal impact of AI-driven education and the potential consequences for students' skills, employment prospects, and societal values.Originality/valueOriginality/Values: This research contributes to the academic discourse by systematically examining the role of ChatGPT in management education, providing insights into both its advantages and potential ethical challenges. The study offers original perspectives on the use of AI in educational settings, paving the way for well-informed decision-making that can shape the future of management education in the evolving landscape of technological progress.