Somendra Narayan, Assistant Professor of Strategy and Innovation at the Amsterdam Business School (ABS), shares insights on how generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping business education by enhancing active learning and engagement. Drawing from his work with emerging technologies, he highlights the opportunities GenAI offers to elevate traditional teaching methods and create interactive, real-world learning experiences.

Watch Somendra’s story here:

Exploring the power of GenAI in the classroom
Somendra’s journey with GenAI began in research, but its potential quickly led him to bring it into the classroom. By using GenAI, he’s been able to introduce dynamic activities such as AI-supported brainstorming, role-playing, and simulations of business scenarios. These activities engage students deeply, helping them connect academic concepts with practical applications.

Real-world learning with AI Tools
One example of Somendra’s innovative use of GenAI is ‘Claire the Business Model Consultant’, a custom AI tool he developed for his students. Claire allows students to test and adapt business models in real time, providing hands-on experience in decision-making. Such AI-driven interactions align with active learning principles, fostering critical thinking and student-driven exploration.

Enhanced student engagement and preparedness
The introduction of GenAI has resulted in measurable improvements in student preparedness and participation. Interactive tools like Claire make classroom discussions more engaging and relevant, boosting motivation and deepening learning. By aligning these tools with active learning, Somendra promotes an environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and critical analysis.

GenAI: A future-ready approach to teaching
For educators looking to integrate GenAI, Somendra recommends starting small: “simple AI-driven activities can significantly impact student learning and classroom dynamics. GenAI offers a pathway to simulate real-life interactions, transforming executive education and professional training and preparing students for the digital age”.