Learn more about how AI and machine learning relate and why it's valuable to learn more about AI.
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Kogod School of Business
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how companies across the globe operate. To stay competitive in this shifting environment, business students must know how to use AI applications effectively. But what exactly does AI technology encompass, where does machine learning fit in? And just as importantly, what skills do students need to leverage this technology for success?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that enables computers and machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. Today’s AI-equipped applications and devices simulate human learning and comprehension to complete complex tasks such as proposing solutions to problems, locating and identifying objects, composing stories and poems, and more.
Since the 1980s, industries such as manufacturing and statistics have employed AI to optimize their processes and products. But in recent years, a new form of artificial intelligence has emerged that is transforming how businesses operate: generative AI.
Generative AI technology analyzes data using predictive algorithms to create original text, images, video, and other content. This is a significant evolution from early AI systems, which simply analyze human-input data to make a recommendation.
Today, generative AI is infused into countless business tools. Common applications include:
However, to understand generative AI, it’s important to grasp the concept of machine learning, which provides its foundation.
Machine learning (ML) is the sub-field of AI that enables computers and machines to imitate how humans learn. ML uses a set of instructions (algorithms) to train machines to adapt to new information without explicit directions.
A diagram demonstrating how artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning and generative AI are related. Source: IBM (https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/artificial-intelligence)
“While artificial intelligence encompasses the broad goal of creating machines that can perform complex tasks, machine learning is a specific branch of AI focused on analyzing large volumes of data to identify patterns and produce results with associated probabilities of correctness,” says Gwanhoo Lee, Chair of the Department of Information Technology and Analytics
One of the most common types of ML algorithms is a neural network modeled after the human brain. This model allows AI applications to identify complex patterns in large amounts of data and provides the foundation for deep learning, another subset of machine learning.
“In essence, AI is the destination, and ML is one of the key paths leading there,” says Lee.
Many job seekers worry AI will replace human roles, but in reality, it is creating more jobs than it eliminates. By 2025, the World Economic Forum estimates that AI will generate 97 million new roles in business analytics, digital transformation, and AI strategy.
AI technology is also enhancing many existing administrative roles by automating repetitive tasks and allowing professionals to focus on higher-level strategic and creative work. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for students to understand AI tools to stay relevant to business needs.
AI is fundamentally changing the way businesses operate. Being able to understand what AI is, how it works, and being able to leverage the technology will help students succeed throughout this AI revolution.”
Angela Virtu
Professor of Information Technology and Analytics, Kogod School of Business
Students need a combination of data-driven technical and soft skills to use AI applications effectively. They should consider honing skills and capabilities in the following five areas:
In 2024, Kogod announced an updated, AI-infused curriculum that now boasts 40+ new and updated courses. The redesigned curriculum consists of “AI Sage” courses, which include deep immersion into the use of AI in a real-world context, and “AI Artisan” courses, which discuss the application of AI in a more abstract and theoretical way.
All Kogod students, staff, and faculty have access to Perplexity through a partnership that provides safe, enterprise AI access to the entire Kogod community.
Kogod students can also study with AI/ML experts, including professors Angela Virtu, Shawn Janzen, and Yitong Wang. Additionally, the school hosts industry panels and workshops featuring executives across sectors, like Google's Kent Walker and Microsoft's Brad Smith, harnessing AI to lead business change.
As the business world enters a new AI-dominated era, students need to develop new tech-savvy skills to ensure success. Learn more about how Kogod is helping business students stay ahead of the trends.
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