The Why and How of Generative AI Application in Business for Career Readiness

Abstract

This paper examines the integration of Generative AI in business courses to enhance students’ career readiness in an AI-driven world. Despite rapid AI growth and adoption across industries, there remains a gap in employee expertise. Using a case study from an undergraduate economics course at Penn State University, the paper explores how AI tools, particularly prompt engineering, can complement traditional learning and help students develop essential skills for the future workforce. The findings suggest that effective AI integration fosters deeper learning, increases productivity, and equips students to navigate an evolving job market. The paper advocates for AI-enhanced learning in the classrooms as crucial for improving student employability.