Does Artificial Intelligence Tool Enhance Critical Thinking In Sustainability-Based Strategic Management Capstone Course?

A challenge for sustainability based strategic management capstone courses is lack of real world data that students can use in the assignments. Although many companies publish corporate social responsibility (CSR) or environment, social, and governance (ESG) reports – the data in there is difficult to use and compare due to heterogeneity of metrics. In this study, we introduce the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChaptGpt and Copilot in assignments to analyze data from CSR and ESG reports. With iterative prompt engineering, the AI tools extracted heterogeneous data from the reports and performed textual analysis and quantitative analysis. Comparison of student response from pre- and post use of AI, indicate that larger volume of data generated by AI, and deeper engagement with the information, led to greater level of critical thinking on the part of the students. The AI tools can be used across many disciplines, for both undergraduate and graduate, and across different delivery methods.